Outsmart the Scammers
Connects ASEAN professionals committed to stopping online scams and cyber crimes
Supported by:
implemented by:
What is CyberSafe ASEAN?
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The Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Regional Workshop: CyberSafe ASEAN – Uniting Emerging Leaders to Outsmart Scammers brings together 60 young professionals from all 11 ASEAN member states for a week of applied problem-solving in Jakarta, Indonesia (January 27-30, 2026). Online scams have evolved into one of Southeast Asia’s most pressing cross-border challenges, impacting citizens, economies, and people across the region. This workshop moves beyond awareness-building to equip participants with practical tools and cross-sector collaboration models to counter these threats through innovation, coordination, and shared accountability. |
Key Program Highlights
60 Participants
Connect and collaborate with professionals across ASEAN to co-design real solutions against scams.
Small Grants
Access funding to turn collaborative ideas into real-world pilot projects with peers across ASEAN.
Join the Network
Network & collaborate with peers across ASEAN to strengthen response & resilience against scams.
3-Phase Program
Access funding to turn collaborative ideas into real-world pilot projects with peers across ASEAN.
Application Guidelines
CyberSafe ASEAN Regional Workshop is open to mid-career professionals who are ready to take action against online scams and cyber-enabled crimes across Southeast Asia.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be between 27 and 35 years old at the time of application.
- Be a citizen of an ASEAN Member State.
- Have at least two years of professional or volunteer experience in relevant sectors (cybersecurity, regulatory affairs, law enforcement, tech, finance, communications, community advocacy and engagement, digital literacy, online safety, IT, education, and public policy related to cybercrime prevention).
- Be fully committed to joining all phases of the program, including virtual sessions in January 2026 and the in-person workshop in Jakarta on January 27-30, 2026.
Program Structure
Frequently Asked Questions
Who supports and implements the program?
The program is supported by the U.S. Mission to ASEAN and implemented by Biji-biji Initiative, in partnership with The Fourth and Girls Can Lead.
Is the YSEALI CyberSafe ASEAN Regional Workshop fully funded?
Yes, this workshop is fully funded. All expenses, including travel, accommodation, and other program-related costs, are covered for selected participants from ASEAN countries.
Is there an application fee?
No. Participation in the workshop is fully funded by the U.S. Mission to ASEAN, including flights, accommodation, meals, and materials.
When and where will the workshop take place?
The YSEALI CyberSafe ASEAN Regional Workshop will be held in Jakarta, Indonesia, from January 27-30, 2026. Pre-workshop and post-workshop activities will be held virtually.
Do I need to join the entire program?
Yes, all selected participants are required to fully join the program, including the pre-workshop webinar, the in-person workshop in Jakarta, and the post-workshop activities.
What will participants actually do during the workshop?
Participants will:
- Join cross-sector strike teams to solve real-world challenges.
- Work directly with experts from U.S. agencies, ASEAN institutions, and private sector leaders.
- Develop and pitch a practical solution or protocol during the final “Outsmart Scammers” Showcase at @america.
What kind of solutions are expected?
Outputs may include prototype SOPs, victim-support tools, scam detection protocols, community outreach strategies, or inter-agency coordination frameworks — all aimed at reducing scam victimization and strengthening regional cooperation.
Do I need to be a YSEALI alumnus to apply?
No, the workshop is open to new applicants and YSEALI alumni alike. New applicants will be prioritized. However, mentors will be selected specifically from the YSEALI alumni network.
How do I apply?
Applications will close on December 12, 2025 at 23:59 GMT+7. Click “Apply Now” on this page to access the online application form.
When will applicants be notified?
Final selections will be announced by the end of December 2025 to early January 2026, following a joint review by the U.S. Mission to ASEAN and program partners.
Will the program cover travel and accommodation?
Yes. The program covers flights, accommodation, local transport, and meals for all selected participants.
Do I need a visa to enter Indonesia?
Selected participants are responsible for checking visa requirements. The organizing team will issue official invitation letters to support visa applications if needed.
What should I prepare before traveling?
If you get selected as a participant, you need to have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity. Additionally, you should also prepare a laptop or device for collaboration and any pre-assigned materials from the organizing team.
What happens after the workshop?
Participants can apply for small grants to pilot their team’s solutions and remain part of the CyberSafe ASEAN Network for continued collaboration.
Can I apply to multiple YSEALI programs at the same time?
You are welcome to apply for all YSEALI opportunities as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. However, selection is not guaranteed for any program, as each has its own scoring system and evaluation process. Additionally, to ensure more young people have a chance, the likelihood of being accepted into multiple programs may be low. Therefore, we recommend prioritizing the program that aligns most with your interests and goals.