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Barnama

an hour ago

• Barnama

- How Celebrities Capture The Hearts Of Malaysians Through Social Media

Opinions on topical issues from thought leaders, columnists and editors. In the era of digital connection, social media has evolved from a mere tool for communication into a stage where fans meet, laugh, cry and grow together. For Malaysians, this virtual space is where admiration turns into affection – where celebrities do not just perform, but participate in everyday life. Whether it is on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter or Facebook, these icons have mastered the art of turning screens into a bridge to the heart. But what exactly makes them so magnetic to Malaysian audiences? Stars who embrace Malaysian culture in all its colourful diversity win the hearts of fans faster than a flash sale on Shopee. Posting festive greetings during Hari Raya, Deepavali or Chinese New Year is not just a good PR. It is personal. It says, 'I see you. I celebrate with you.' Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza is a master of this, often seen strengthening her ties with Malaysian heritage and followers by sharing heartwarming family moments during festive gatherings. Topple it with the mix of some local slang, a cheeky nasi lemak meme, or a TikTok skit dodging durians at the pasar malam, and just like that, a celebrity is not just famous, they are one of us. Malaysians have a keen eye and heart for authenticity. When celebrities share unfiltered glimpses of their personal lives, they become more than just famous faces; they become virtual friends. A heartfelt photo, a silly video, a candid confession - these moments resonate. Take Neelofa for instance, whose posts as a mother strike a chord with her audience, offering warmth and vulnerability that feels refreshingly real to the followers. By stripping away the polish and letting the human side shine through, celebrities earn not only just attention, but trust, loyalty, and love. In a world of kindness, celebrities who champion in charitable endeavours or environmental issues gain a deeper kind of admiration. When floods ravaged parts of Malaysia, figures like Khairul Aming and other celebrities stepped up using their social media to raise funds and deliver aid. These acts are not forgotten. Malaysians deeply respect celebrities who go beyond selfies and sponsorships, showing empathy and leadership when it matters the most. Gone are the golden days when celebrities lived behind velvet ropes. Now, they are going live, liking comments, replying to DMs, and reposting fans' art. This interactivity makes the fans feel seen and valued. Actress Mira Filzah, for instance, does this effortlessly by chatting about her daily life and responding to fans' curiosities. These exchanges turn admiration into attachment, forming a loyal digital village around her. 5. Humour: The shortcut to the soul If there is one thing Malaysians love more than food, it is a good laugh. Celebrities who tap into our national sense of humour, win followers and fondness. From Douglas Lim's satirical takes to Ryan Bakery's hilarious school day mockery, laughter becomes a shared language. A well-timed joke about traffic jams or the never-ending rainy season? Instant relatability and virality. 6. Brand collaboration: Repping Malaysian in style When celebrities partner with brands that speak to Malaysian identity, be it for halal cosmetics, batik fashion, or sambal snacks, they do more than the market. They reflect values, style and pride. Ayda Jebat's collaborations with beauty brands, for instance, do not just showcase the products. It showcases a Malaysian aesthetic, inspiring fans while staying rooted in local flair. 7. Behind-the-scenes access There is something irresistible about backstage passes. Social media gives fans access to the effort behind the glitz – gritty rehearsals, blooper reels and raw emotions. Henry Golding, for example, shares both Hollywood moments and nostalgic snippets on his Malaysian upbringing. It is a duality that fans admire: global, yet grounded. 8. TikTok Trends: Dancing into relevance TikTok has become the playground of pop culture and Malaysian celebrities are playing along with gusto. Whether it is a dance challenge, a funny parody, or a trending soundbite, joining the fun keeps them youthful and in tune. Dato' Aliff Syukri's over-the-top antics may stir conversation, but they also rack up views – proof that personality and playfulness are still powerful. 9. Grace in crisis: The art of apology Nobody is perfect, but Malaysians value those who own up, speak sincerely and rise from mistakes. A thoughtful apology, spoken in earnest, can turn criticism into compassion. Celebrities who address catastrophe controversies with grace, transparency and humility often emerge stronger, as their fan base is deepened by respect. 10. Celebrating Malaysian identity with pride From donning traditional attire to promoting local food, celebrities who wear their Malaysian identity with pride evoke a shared sense of belonging. When Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh pays tribute to her roots on global platforms, Malaysians feel not just represented, but honoured. This sense of national pride resonates deeply, turning admiration into emotional kinship. Conclusion A celebrity's influence is not measured by likes alone, but by the bonds they build in this digital age. Through laughter, empathy, cultural fluency and genuine connection, celebrities in Malaysia are crafting relationships that go far beyond the screen. With every heartfelt post, relatable meme and meaningful interaction, they are not just collecting followers – they are winning hearts, one post at a time. -- BERNAMA Dr Nurizah Md. Ngadiran is with the Academy of Language Studies, Universiti Teknologi MARA; Safra Liyana Sukiman, with the Centre for Language Studies, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia; and Nor Fatin Abdul Jabar, with MAHSA University.

Borneo Post

4 hours ago

• Borneo Post

Storytelling competition inspires patriotism among Sarawak students

Kestury (centre) in a photo call with the panel of judges and senior officers from Sarawak Information Department. – Information Department photo KUCHING (July 25): The 'Pengisahan Kenegaraan @ Kelab Malaysiaku 2025' competition is more than just a storytelling contest – it serves as a key platform to foster patriotism, instil national values and cultivate students' appreciation for Malaysia's independence heroes. Organised under the Information Department's 'Kelab Malaysiaku' programme, the event focused on dramatic storytelling that incorporated strong elements of patriotism, nationhood, and historical appreciation. Topics included national policies, Malaysia's development milestones, constitutional values, and the struggles of independence fighters. All entries were submitted in the form of pre-recorded videos, each not exceeding 15 minutes. Information Department Sarawak deputy director Sri Kestury Mohammed Zamhari said the competition plays a crucial role in shaping the identity of young Malaysians through creative narration and performance. 'Through storytelling and creative delivery, students are not only taught to honour our national heroes, but also guided to embrace noble values and a spirit of nationhood,' she said during the Sarawak-level finals held virtually yesterday. She commended the students for their creativity and commitment, adding that this year's theme, 'Malaysia Madani, Rakyat Disantuni', aligns with the government's efforts to promote unity, compassion, and respect among Malaysians. Emerging as state champion was Kelab Malaysiaku from Sekolah Seni Malaysia Sarawak, who will represent Sarawak at the national finals in September. The winning team defeated five other schools and took home RM1,000 in cash, a plaque, and a certificate. Second place went to SMK Tatau, who won RM700, while SMK Paku, Bau placed third with RM500. Consolation prizes of RM300 each were awarded to SMK Jalan Arang (Kuching), SMK Jalan Oya (Sibu), and SMK St Anthony (Sarikei). The virtual event was also attended by district Information officers, participants, and teacher coordinators. Judging the competition were Universiti Malaysia Sarawak's (Unimas) Faculty of Applied and Creative Arts lecturer Mawar Suhaila Abdul Bakar, National Film Development Corporation (Finas) Sarawak branch publishing officer Mohamad Haziq Mirza Othman, and senior officers from Information Department Sarawak. Information Department lead Pengisahan Kenegaraan storytelling contest

Focus Malaysia

18 hours ago

• Focus Malaysia

New rules mooted after local fans irate with mainland China fans dominating G-Dragon concert

THE fall-out from the 'King of K-pop' G-Dragon shows on July 19 and 20 continues unabated with domestic concert-goers venting their fury over the unavailability of tickets. The problem was further compounded with scalpers immediately re-selling the hot item tickets at inflated prices with many landing in the hands of mainland China fans instead. Fan anger was picked up by local English-language radio station FlyFM (@FlyFM958) which demanded to know on X why Malaysians were unable to get tickets for a performance held in the Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fly FM Malaysia (@flyfm958) As it was claimed that scalpers were charging up to RM24,000 for tickets in some cases, the radio station called for better organisation to prevent future concerts descending into such a mess. The post also listed a number of recommendations that were collated from feedback on social media. Malaysian concertgoers are fed up. Concerts are held here, but locals can't even get tickets? Make it make sense 🤷‍♀️🎟️ And don't even get us started on scalpers charging up to RM24k 🤢 Time to put a stop to this mess. Agree or not? — Fly FM 🇲🇾 (@FlyFM958) July 21, 2025 It was postulated that Malaysian buyers be limited to four tickets each with a system that will spot credit cards being used multiple times as well as block bots from joining the queue. The post also jokingly added the proviso that purchasers must sing one chorus to prove their fandom before declaring – 'Let's bring the fun back to concerts'. That point was hammered home rather more forcefully by Rhjin Eoghan Seamus (@chinhong2018) who fumed that he was made to feel like a foreigner in his own country. He went on to claim that the entire event seemed designed to cater to foreign tourists, especially those from China – and even as a Chinese Malaysian – he was quite fed up. As a chinese malaysian, im pissed too. Feel like they want to cater Chinese frm🇨🇳 rather than local Malaysians even tho the venue is in Msia. Tbh, if y'all have threads or xhs, many Chinese Malaysians are fed up that the 🇨🇳 flocked to the stadium making us like foreigners there — Rhijn Eoghan Seamus (@chinhong2018) July 19, 2025 The view that this G-Dragon gig was tailored exclusively for Chinese audience was reinforced by Ejen Alif (@alif_shinken) in a post containing a video of a lucky draw event by AirAsia in Gurney Plaza, Penang. Why was the announcement made in Chinese when it is for a G-Dragon concert in KL, asked the perplexed commenter who tagged the Communications Ministry to express his disgruntlement. Same goes to @airasia event at Gurney Plaza this morning. At least English la, we want to join the fun too! @komunikasi_gov can check kot. — Ejen AliF 🇲🇾 (@alif_shinken) July 19, 2025 However, this claim that the event was held primarily in Chinese was dismissed by some who were there, including one who claimed to be staff. For sure, better regulation is required. This is to ensure local fans are not alienated from events held in their own backyard. However, the influx of Chinese nationals for the concert is no bad thing. Yes, local K-pop fans may be angry and disappointed but one of the primary reasons for having such concerts is to energise the local economy. And that is better served when large number of tourists visit. If a K-pop concert is the enticement for them to book a ticket to these shores, why not? – July 24, 2025 Main image credit: Lifestyle Hong Kong