TikTok’s Surf’s Up Inspires Online Responsibility At IIUM

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TikTok, the leading destination for mobile video, continues its commitment to fostering 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 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, as well as a panel discussion on the critical role of personal responsibility in the digital world. The event was held 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 of CMCF.

The debate, guided by IWON member and student Nisrina Nabihah, featured three students on each team presenting thoughtful arguments, with a winner voted by the audience. IIUM students also participated in a panel session moderated by Sheahnee Iman Lee, alongside panelists Waskito Jati, Mediha Mahmood, and TikTok Creator and former lawyer Reina Lum.

The panel session reflected on the earlier debate, extending the conversation into a wider discussion on the responsibilities that come with creating and consuming content online. It explored how both users and platforms influence the digital landscape and emphasised the importance of making conscious choices when sharing material publicly.

TikTok’s Surf’s Up at IIUM is the third installation of the series, with previous engagements held at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and the University of Nottingham Malaysia in 2024.