Melaka: TikTok, the popular mobile video platform, has extended its safety outreach program, Surf's Up: Deputies of Digital Literacy, to graduates of Technical University of Malaysia Melaka (UTeM). This initiative emphasizes the importance of being responsible online citizens.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, TikTok highlighted the deep integration of social media into students' lives, noting that many new workforce entrants are unaware of the permanent impact their digital footprints can have. The platform aims to educate graduates on how their online actions today may influence their professional reputations and career opportunities in the future.
TikTok, in collaboration with UTeM and the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (CMCF), provided actionable guidance to ensure graduates develop the digital maturity required to leverage their online presence for professional credibility. This initiative also aligns with efforts to contribute ethically to Malaysia's digital-first economy.
The fourth installment of TikTok Malaysia's Surf's Up university tour took place during UTeM's Convo Fest, focusing on digital literacy as crucial for personal safety and professional development. Themed 'Online With A Purpose,' the event prepared future technical graduates to build positive and credible digital footprints.
An interactive panel discussion featured TikTok Malaysia public policy manager Aliff Zakaria, CMCF CEO Mediha Mahmood, UTeM deputy dean of Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security Faculty Ts Dr. Muhammad Noorazlan Shah, and Aiszzy Electronics founder Ts 'Aqilah Zainuddin. Moderated by Hazeman Huzir, the discussion explored the intersection of education, technology, and online safety.
Panelists emphasized that a student's digital presence is now intertwined with their professional life, making digital mindfulness an essential skill for graduates. Muhammad Noorazlan highlighted the academic perspective, stressing that online behavior directly impacts employment prospects.
'Digital literacy is a life skill, not just a classroom topic,' he stated. 'Employers routinely check social media profiles during hiring, and every post leaves a digital trace. We encourage students to create meaningful, skill-based content that reflects their capabilities.'
Mediha Mahmood reinforced the need for self-regulation and community standards, stating that digital safety and credibility hinge on personal accountability. 'The internet amplifies our responsibility for what we share. Our collaboration on the Surf's Up series nurtures a self-regulating digital culture where informed choices become second nature.'
The program included a Tik-Talk creator segment showcasing positive examples of using technical knowledge for digital education. Aqilah Zainuddin shared her journey from an introverted engineer to a digital educator, demonstrating how she uses TikTok to share her work and inspire others.
'Authenticity built on accountability drives lasting positive impact online,' she explained, emphasizing the importance of providing accurate and well-researched information.
This initiative signals a commitment from future leaders to self-regulation and mindful posting, translating skills into positive social action. By participating, attendees contribute to building a safe, valued, and empowered digital environment for all Malaysians.
TikTok Malaysia's ongoing campus series to promote responsible digital citizenship includes previous engagements at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), University of Nottingham Malaysia, and the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM), resulting in over 1,000 pledges in total.