Senior Citizen Activity Centre E-commerce and Cybersecurity: The Way Ahead to IR 4.0

Abstract

Background - The Malaysian ageing community’s IT aptitude is limited and is a key factor preventing Malaysia’s ageing population from successfully entering Industry 4.0. This study aims to digitalize Malaysian older people with e-commerce. This will require cybersecurity awareness training due to potential cybersecurity threats when conducting business online. Furthermore, this study advances the Industry 4.0 initiatives set by Malaysia’s National Industry 4.0 Policy Framework by means of a voluntary community-based training program. It also creates a policy that elevates Malaysia’s senior citizens’ current level of ICT innovation baseline commensurate with Industry 4.0 transformation standards. Methods – Participatory action research was conducted with members in a Senior Citizen Activity Centre (PAWE) through focus group discussions. Each focus group consisted of 6-8 people. Through identifying the community’s problem in the focus groups, an e-commerce platform was developed for the elderly to commercialise their existing products. The dissemination of e-commerce training and cybersecurity awareness were also conducted as part of mitigating fraud relating to online transactions. Results – The findings show that PAWE members’ IT aptitude was limited, that they needed assistance with understanding the e-commerce platform, and that they had limited cybersecurity awareness. Conclusions – The country’s ageing population programs and services are preparing for an ageing nation. In order for Malaysia’s ageing population to become self-sustainable, researchers suggest that Malaysian older persons become entrepreneurs. Third generation entrepreneurs must also be supported by social innovation, technological innovation, and cybersecurity awareness, which leads to achieving IR 4.0 and meets the economic, social and sustainable environmental goals.