Tiktok malaysia: Surf's up
Discover how TikTok Malaysia empowered university students as ‘Deputies of Digital Literacy’, promoting safe and responsible internet practices.
Challenge
As Malaysia’s digital economy accelerates, young people are spending more time online than ever before. While this creates new opportunities for learning and connection, it also exposes them to online risks—from misinformation to harmful content. For platforms like TikTok, strengthening digital literacy among youth is vital to ensure safer online environments and promote responsible internet use.
Solution
In 2024, TikTok Malaysia partnered with the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum Malaysia (CMCF) and three leading universities—University of Nottingham Malaysia, UiTM Shah Alam, and International Islamic University Malaysia—to launch a nationwide digital literacy outreach.
The initiative provided students with the opportunity to engage directly with:
- Industry representatives shaping Malaysia’s digital ecosystem
- Policy experts and academics offering guidance on responsible internet practices
- Influential TikTok educational creators sharing real-world insights
To encourage active participation, students were invited to ask questions, join discussions on internet safety, and take part in a symbolic pledge to become “Deputies of Digital Literacy.” This commitment reinforced their role as proactive ambassadors for safe, responsible online behaviour within their own communities.
Outcome
The programme delivered measurable impact and strengthened TikTok’s position as a partner in Malaysia’s digital transformation:
700+ student pledges signed, reinforcing commitment to responsible internet practices.
Strong institutional recognition: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) expressed interest in expanding outreach in 2025.
Government endorsement: The Minister of Communications lauded TikTok’s collaboration with regulators, highlighting the initiative as a positive step towards a safer internet in Malaysia.
By empowering students with digital literacy skills, TikTok Malaysia successfully positioned itself as a catalyst for positive change—bridging the gap between technology, education, and community safety.