RLAF: Digital Transformation for All

Bridging the digital divide with inclusive initiatives ensures everyone—regardless of age or ability—can connect, create, and thrive in a digital world.

Technology has become an essential part of daily life, from online banking and food delivery to communication and entertainment. Yet, while digital advancements offer convenience, they also create barriers for those who lack digital literacy.

Recognising this challenge, Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation Ltd (RLAF) launched Digital Transformation for All (DTA), a programme designed to bridge the digital divide by equipping Malay-Muslim communities with essential digital skills. Through talks and hands-on workshops, the initiative supported seniors in embracing and adopting technology with confidence. For students, the talks and workshops focused on enhancing their knowledge of online safety, navigating online harms, and digital wellness.

Addressing the Digital Divide

As Singapore works towards realising its smart nation vision, many seniors who were not digitally literate struggled to keep up with the use of digital services such as cashless transactions, telemedicine, and digital communication. The challenge was not just about learning how to use a smartphone or an app; it was about overcoming fear and hesitation. Many worried about pressing the wrong button, falling for scams, or not understanding how online platforms worked.

On the other hand, students, despite being digital natives, faced a different set of challenges. While they were comfortable with social media and online platforms, many lacked the critical thinking skills and knowledge needed to discern fake news, protect themselves from cyber harms, and maintain healthy digital habits. Without proper guidance, they might fall victim to online harms such as cyberbullying, grooming, or experience digital burnout.

DTA was designed to address these specific needs, ensuring that both seniors and students were well-equipped to navigate the digital space safely.

Curriculum Tailored for Seniors and Students

At its core, the Digital Transformation for All programme was built on three key pillars:

1. Digital Wellness Talks – Interactive sessions that covered online safety, scams, cyber wellness, and digital well-being.
2. Hands-On Workshops – Practical training that taught essential digital skills, from using mobile applications to identifying phishing scams.
3. Volunteer-Led Training – Dedicated volunteers who guided participants with patience and real-life examples.

Since its launch, DTA has impacted over 1,300 participants across 27 sessions, which were conducted at Madrasahs, mosques, and active ageing centres like Sathya Sai Social Service (4S).

The curriculum was designed to address the unique challenges and opportunities seniors and students face in the digital landscape.

For seniors, the programme focused on:

• Adjusting basic phone settings (font sizes, accessibility features, smartphone navigation)

• Using transportation and food delivery apps

• Mastering communication apps (WhatsApp messaging, calls, video chats)

• Understanding cybercrime and scams (phishing, personal information security, fraud prevention)

Hands-on sessions boosted confidence for the seniors, and printed hand-outs made learning more accessible.

Seniors who attended the programme found the sessions valuable and enlightening. One participant shared, "The sessions were easy to follow, and the trainers gave clear instructions." Another senior appreciated learning practical skills, stating, "This was a very good programme—I learnt about smartphone settings, which I hadn’t known before."

The importance of online safety resonated with attendees, as one participant noted, "I understand the need to be cautious of scams because a member of my family had been a victim before." Many also praised the trainers for their supportive approach, with one senior expressing, "The trainers were very patient in guiding us on how to use the smartphone, which made the learning process much easier."

Resources, including printed handouts and slides in Malay, made learning more accessible for Malay-speaking seniors. By learning in a supportive environment, seniors not only gained technical skills but also the confidence to engage with technology independently.

For students, the programme focused on building awareness, resilience, and critical thinking in navigating the digital world. As they were more exposed to online risks, equipping them with the right knowledge and tools would foster responsible and safe online behavior while protecting their personal information and digital identity. The programme covered topics such as:

• Recognising phishing and online scams (suspicious links, messages)

• Navigating cyberbullying and online relationships (online etiquette, seeking help)

• Managing privacy and information security (digital footprints, data protection)

• Building digital media literacy (spotting misinformation and fake news)

Bright minds at work! Students fully engaged in the classroom, learning with enthusiasm.

Sessions were engaging through interactive quizzes, discussions, and hands-on activities. Students created their own posters or slides based on the topic at hand, and many developed an interest in expanding their digital skills beyond safety awareness, with the use of creative digital tools like Adobe Photoshop, Canva, and CapCut.

Technology as a Bridge, Not a Barrier

For RLAF, digital transformation is not just about teaching technical skills—it is about fostering a more inclusive and connected society, where technology serves as an enabler rather than a barrier.

With support from the Digital for Life Fund, RLAF was able to provide both digital tools and educational resources, including engaging experienced trainers with expertise in digital wellness and offering volunteer training opportunities.

“Digital for Life represents the power of technology to transform lives and create opportunities for all. It is about inclusivity—ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or background, can navigate the digital world with confidence,” said Liyana Farzana, Marketing and Communications Executive at RLAF.

Looking ahead, DTA 2025 aims to expand its reach to mosques island wide and elderly homes, benefitting more seniors, especially Malay-speaking seniors who are not proficient in English.