Sibu MP: Social media must spread positive messages, not harm individuals

SIBU (Feb 8): Social media should be used ethically to disseminate information and positive messages to the community, and not as a weapon to attack individuals, said Sibu MP Oscar Ling.

He emphasised that the role of the media today is crucial in guiding the public to use social media responsibly, noting that platforms meant for communication are increasingly being misused to cause harm.

“Today, social media is no longer merely a medium for conveying information but has become a tool that can be misused to take revenge against someone,” Ling said during a media night held in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration here on Friday.

He described the situation as very worrying, warning that such misuse could have serious and harmful effects on those targeted, including emotional and psychological distress.

About 30 media practitioners attended the event, representing various agencies including Utusan Borneo, The Borneo Post, See Hua Daily, Sin Chew Daily, RTM, Utusan Sarawak and Bernama.

Ling reiterated that the misuse of social media as a weapon for personal attacks must be stopped, as it undermines social harmony and can severely affect the mental health of victims.

He cited a recent case in which an individual was made viral through a video clip on social media and subsequently subjected to excessive condemnation from netizens.

In some instances, he said, the harassment extended beyond online abuse, with individuals contacting and harassing the victim’s family members.

“Do not misuse this platform to the extent that it causes mental distress to certain individuals,” he said.

He noted that victims of cyberbullying often face fear, trauma and emotional stress, with some becoming reluctant to appear in public due to feelings of exposure after going viral.

“In this regard, I urge mainstream media to play a more active role in educating the public and promoting correct and ethical social media content,” he added.