Scam syndicates are increasingly targeting rural communities in Sarawak by exploiting poverty, limited education and low digital awareness, a senator has warned.
Senator Abun Sui Anyit said many villagers are being offered cash incentives to open bank or e-wallet accounts without realising the accounts are later used for online scams and money laundering activities.
According to Abun, many rural residents have limited exposure to technology and financial literacy, leaving them unaware of the legal consequences of allowing others to use accounts registered in their names.
He said some victims have ended up being arrested, charged in court and required to post bail of up to RM10,000, an amount that many low-income families simply cannot afford.
“As a result, some remain in custody while awaiting trial, even though they have young children depending on them at home,” he said.
The Hulu Rajang PKR chief urged enforcement authorities to take into account a suspect’s educational background, financial situation and the possibility that they were manipulated by organised scam syndicates before deciding to prosecute.
“Go after the masterminds behind these syndicates, not the innocent people they have deceived,” he said.
Abun also called on community leaders, village chiefs and longhouse heads to educate residents about the dangers of opening bank or e-wallet accounts for other people in exchange for money.
He further urged the government, financial institutions and relevant agencies to expand anti-scam awareness campaigns across rural areas, including using local languages, to ensure more communities understand the risks and are better protected from falling victim to organised fraud.
