TikTok’s Surf’s Up Inspires Online Responsibility at IIUM
TikTok, the leading destination for mobile video, continues its commitment to foster digital literacy and responsible content creation through the third Surf’s Up: Deputies of Digital Literacy Summit, with almost 150 students from the International Islamic University of Malaysia (IIUM) pledging to TikTok’s #ThinkTwice online safety campaign.
The latest edition of TikTok Surf’s Up featured a debate session on the responsibility of keeping online communities safe and a panel discussion on the critical role of personal responsibility in the digital world, in collaboration with the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (CMCF) and IIUM’s World Debate and Oratory Centre (IWON).
“Today’s youth play an essential role in shaping our digital landscape. Through Surf’s Up, TikTok aims to empower young people to take control of their online experience, be mindful about the content they post and share, and help create an online community that values positivity, inclusivity, and safety. We are inspired to see IIUM students actively engage in learning sessions and thoughtful discussions and we look forward to seeing more students take on the role of ‘deputies of digital literacy,” said Waskito Jati, Outreach and Partnerships Manager at TikTok.
“Online safety isn’t just about rules, it’s about conversations, critical thinking, and collective action. The Content Forum is proud to partner with TikTok on Surf’s Up to create spaces where young people can question, engage, and learn. Initiatives like this help nurture a culture of self-regulation and digital responsibility. What’s especially powerful is seeing students debate and explore different viewpoints. It sharpens their thinking, opens minds, and reminds us all that the ability to see both sides is essential in navigating today’s digital landscape with confidence and conscience,” said Mediha Mahmood, Chief Executive Officer, Communications and Multimedia Content Forum (CMCF).
Guided by IWON member and student Nisrina Nabihah, the debate saw three students on each team present thoughtful arguments, followed by a winner voted by the audience. IIUM students also participated and discussed ethical and safe online practices during the panel session with Waskito Jati, Mediha Mahmood, TikTok Creator and former lawyer Reina Lum, and moderator Sheahnee Iman Lee.
The panel session reflected on the prior debate, extending the topic into a discussion on the responsibilities that come with creating and consuming content online, and how users and platforms alike can influence the digital landscape and the importance of making conscious choices when sharing their material with the public.
TikTok’s Surf’s Up at IIUM is the third installation of the series, with previous engagements at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and University of Nottingham Malaysia in 2024.