Kota Sentosa State Assemblyman Wilfred Yap has voiced deep concern over the growing number of scam cases in Sarawak, warning that the problem has become increasingly sophisticated and widespread.

“Scams are now targeting victims through online investment offers, fake job advertisements, e-commerce frauds, and impersonation of government or financial officers,” he said, calling for stronger action and smarter prevention to address the issue.

Yap said enforcement agencies must adapt and intensify their efforts to raise public awareness and strengthen preventive measures to stop this worrying trend.

“Although awareness campaigns are held from time to time, the continuing rise in scam cases shows that more must be done. Enforcement agencies need to update their strategies to suit the realities of the digital age,” he said.

According to Yap, scam syndicates are using advanced technology, fake websites, and social media platforms to deceive unsuspecting victims. He stressed that enforcement agencies must keep up with these changes and take a more proactive approach.

“Prevention is always better than cure and it is far more effective to stop scams from happening than to act only after victims have lost their hard-earned money,” he added.

He also emphasised the need for enforcement agencies to strengthen collaboration and communication with the public through community-based education and digital awareness campaigns.

Yap further called on financial institutions and digital platforms to play a stronger and more responsible role in combating scams. He urged banks to improve fraud detection and verification systems, enhance customer notification mechanisms, and freeze suspicious transactions more promptly.

“Financial institutions are the frontline of defence and must work hand in hand with enforcement agencies to stop scammers from exploiting the banking system,” he said.

He also proposed greater coordination between the Sarawak Police Commercial Crime Unit, the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC), and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to detect and disrupt scam networks swiftly.

Yap reminded the public to remain cautious and not be swayed by greed or promises of easy profit.

“Scammers often prey on people’s emotions and desire for quick returns. We must all learn to pause, verify, and think before we act. A moment of caution can prevent a lifetime of regret,” he advised.

As Sarawak advances in the digital economy, Yap warned that scammers are also becoming more creative.

“The best defence is public awareness, prevention, and cooperation. Every enforcement agency, institution, and citizen has a role to play,” he said.

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