Unchecked social media new form of colonialism, warns Masiung
TONGOD (Aug 19): The unchecked rise of social media poses a new form of colonialism that could spark controversy and weaken national unity if not addressed seriously, said Kuamut assemblyman Datuk Masiung Banah.
Expressing concern over the spread of fake news and short videos on platforms such as TikTok, Reels, WhatsApp groups and YouTube, Masiung said such unfiltered content was increasingly being weaponised to attack the government and institutions.
'The growing polemic on social media to discredit the government and certain institutions can weaken the governance of a nation that is already independent,' he warned.
Masiung was speaking to the media after flagging off the Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang Convoy at Tongod Open Square last Sunday.
He said slander and incitement spread through unregulated social media posts had become sharp tools for certain groups to create division.
The Housing and Urban Development Board (LPPB) chairman also stressed the importance of appreciating the true meaning of independence across all layers of society.
'The younger generation must understand that the independence we enjoy today is the result of our leaders' struggles.
'In Malaysia, we were freed from colonial rule without bloodshed, unlike other countries where people had to take up arms to gain independence.
'The cry of Merdeka alone is meaningless if we fail to embrace the dimensions of national development and socio-economic progress that ensure stability in a multiracial society,' he said.
Masiung cautioned that many youths today view independence merely as being free from colonial rule, shouting slogans, and waving the Jalur Gemilang.
'True independence of the soul and mind must be nurtured through character building shaped by four key aspects: religion, education, morals, and culture,' he added.
Among the 1,000 Tongod residents who joined the convoy were Sabah Information Department director Jainisah Mohd Noor and Tongod district officer Mohd Yuseri Yusof.
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