SIBU: Authorities are urged to intensify public awareness efforts to combat the rising trend of scam cases.
Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Datuk Dr. Annuar Rapaee said the public needs to develop self-restraint and the ability to critically assess situations before acting.
In a discussion with the Sibu District police chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili, Dr. Annuar was informed about the prevalence of scams in town, noting its reputation as a hotspot for such fraudulent activities.
“The primary reason appears to be naivety and a lack of knowledge on how to react to scam attempts,” he said during the launching of the Job Offer Scam Awareness Campaign at the University of Technology Sarawak (UTS) today (Feb 25).
The campaign is a collaborative effort between the Malaysian Consumer Action Council (MTPN), The Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) Sibu, and the Immigration Department, aimed at educating the public about the various tactics used by scammers.
Dr. Annuar, who also serves as the chairman of the UTS Board of Directors, stressed the need for increased public education on scams, extending beyond just job-related fraud.
“I always remind my parents that any phone call involving money requests, claiming to be from official entities like the police, immigration, banks, the Inland Revenue Board (LHDN), or Putrajaya, is undoubtedly a scam. It’s crucial for everyone to understand that legitimate government agencies do not conduct financial transactions via phone,” he advised.
Also present was MTPN Sibu chairman Lucas Lau.
