Content Creators and Programme Partners participating in the current reel trend

August 9, 2024, Kuala Lumpur — In a landmark public, private, and cross industry collaboration, the Ministry of Communications, Meta Platforms, Inc. and CelcomDigi are proud to announce the launch of a pioneering programme, Creators IRL (In Real Life) aimed at addressing online safety and scams. The event brought together more than 30 of Malaysia’s influential content creators alongside key industry stakeholders, marking the beginning of a concerted effort to equip content creators with the knowledge, tools and experience to combat online threats and promote digital safety.

The event launch offered a sneak peek into the fellowship programme for content creators, featuring a dynamic panel discussion with esteemed experts from Meta, CelcomDigi, and the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum). The panel delved into critical issues surrounding online scams and child online safety, providing valuable insights and strategies to protect online users. Following the panel, attendees participated in a hands-on content creation workshop led by REV Media, which offered practical guidance on creating impactful content addressing serious online safety issues while effectively engaging audiences.

Foster Behavioral Change and Empowerment to go beyond merely sharing information

“It’s essential for content creators not only to be aware of an issue but also to feel empowered to take meaningful action. Authenticity is key, especially with the brands they choose to promote. When content creators genuinely believe in a brand, their content is authentic and resonates with their audience. Our goal is to engage content creators in a way that goes beyond merely sharing information; we aim to foster behavioral change and empowerment,” said New Su Shern, Executive Director of Ratio:Cause, the social change impact agency executing this programme and focused on using social and behavioural change to design scalable solutions.

Building Invaluable Relationships and Partnership

Creators IRL, the flagship initiative of the expansive Online Safety and Anti-Scam Programme, is designed to build a dynamic community of content creators dedicated to tackling online harms. At the heart of Creators IRL is a transformative three-month fellowship for 10 selected content creators. Creators will have the opportunity to take a deep dive into cutting-edge content creation techniques that emphasise on behavioural strategies and online safety from top industry experts. They will gain real-world insights through visits to key organisations and institutions involved in the digital sphere, and network with government officials, corporate leaders, and fellow content creators to build invaluable relationships and partnerships.

Additionally, the programme includes grant support totaling RM80,000.00, enabling the selected 10 creators with the financial resources to produce and create impactful content that drives change on online safety issues. This comprehensive fellowship will empower content creators to harness their creativity and craft content that is not only engaging but also profoundly impactful in promoting online safety.

Mediha Mahmood (CEO, Content Forum), Jennifer Chien (Regional Lead, Policy Programs, Meta APAC), Philip Ling (Head of Sustainability, CelcomDigi), and Onysha Boak (Programme Officer, Ratio_Cause) during a panel.

Online Safety and Positive Online Environment for All, committment of Meta

“Meta is committed to creating a safe and positive online environment. The Creators IRL programme represents a significant step forward in empowering content creators to not only understand the issues of online safety but to take active, meaningful steps to address them. We are excited to see the transformative impact this programme will have on our digital community,” said Daniel Lim, Head of Public Policy at Meta Malaysia.

Philip Ling, Head of Sustainability at CelcomDigi said, “As a company that serves over 20 million customers, we have a responsibility to protect the safety and security of our customers while fostering a more secure digital environment for all Malaysians. To effectively combat online harm and scams, our mission is clear – to ACT, that is to create Awareness, drive Compliance to high security and safety standards internally while supporting enforcement agencies, and leverage Technology advancements to build safeguards against cybercrime. We believe that large-scale action through partnerships like this is key to tackling this pressing social epidemic and continue to advocate a whole-of-society approach to combat various online threats and scams more effectively.”

“The Content Forum firmly believes that collaboration and a multi-stakeholder approach are paramount to ensuring a safe and thriving content environment. We are strong advocates for open dialogues on critical issues as they not only foster understanding and innovation but also serve as powerful catalysts for meaningful change,” said Mediha Mahmood, CEO of the Content Forum.

Content creators who are passionate about making a difference in the digital world are encouraged to seize this chance to become a part of something transformative through the Creators IRL programme. Apply now at onlinesafetyirl.com and be a driving force for positive change in the digital community!