Complete studies before becoming content creators, grad advises fellow youths

KOTA SAMARAHAN (Oct 16): Youngsters who have the passion and desire to become social media personalities such as content creators are reminded to complete their studies first before embarking on such endeavour.

This was the advice from Izrie Hasfiezul Hashim, the recipient of the ‘Best Graduate Award’ and also a special honour from Yayasan Sarawak, presented in his speech for the first session of the 99th Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Sarawak Campus convocation ceremony here.

Izrie, 24, now holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Administrative Science and Policy Studies.

“We all know that the current trend is to become a content creator, and that is not something new among the youths around the world, including in Malaysia.

“Many people think that becoming a content creator is an ‘easy job’ that can generate substantial income,” said the valedictorian in delivering his speech on behalf of 303 graduates from the Faculty of Administrative Science and Policy Studies at the ceremony.

Izrie said the most concerning finding from the eProfil Kerjaya Murid (ePKM) in 2021 was that 180,680, or 48.74 per cent, of students who completed their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) education chose not to continue their studies to a higher level.

Moreover, the Education Minister at that time also stated that in 2020, a total of 115,939 SPM graduates, or 35.16 per cent of the total, were not interested in continuing their studies, he added.

“This matter is also supported by several social media influencers who are ‘campaigning’ that an individual does not need to get tertiary education to succeed.

“I would like to quote the words of a very popular content creator, Khairul Aming, after he was crowned ‘Creator of the Year’ at the TikTok Awards Malaysia last year: ‘Continue learning even if you want to become a content creator; you have to remember, it’s not just about going viral. To remain relevant for a long time, you need to have a lot of knowledge, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, manners, and common sense’,” said Izrie.

Adding on, Izrie said becoming a content creator might seem very easy, but in reality, there were many tasks and challenges to be undertaken, especially the behind-the-scenes work, in addition to mastering many skills.

“This is important if you’re to become an influential and successful content creator,” he said.

On his success, Izrie said it was a blessing from prayers, the support of his parents as well as other family members, and the tireless dedication of his lecturers who had never ceased to educate and guide him.

“I believe in the concept of blessings and approval of lecturers; they give strength in pursuing knowledge. Every blessing of the knowledge that they impart will bring success and make us useful to society and the country.

“For me, lecturers are substitutes for parents, brothers or sisters when we are pursuing knowledge far from our families,” he said.