6 days ago
Click kindness: Shaping safer online communities against cyberbullying
Cyberbullying often hides in plain sight, taking the form of a laughing emoji, a cruel meme or a quick share of a post that humiliates someone else. – AI image
KUALA LUMPUR (Aug 11): Scroll through any social media feed today and the internet appears vibrant, fast-moving, and filled with endless conversations.
Yet beneath this constant stream of content, harsh words and hurtful jokes are often passed around casually, sometimes unnoticed.
For many young people, these are not just passing comments—they are deeply felt wounds that continue to afflict them offline, in classrooms, and even in the privacy of their homes.
Cyberbullying often hides in plain sight, taking the form of a laughing emoji, a cruel meme or a quick share of a post that humiliates someone else.
What many do not realise is that each 'like', share, or silent scroll contributes to a culture that allows online bullying to thrive. The reality is that we all shape the tone and safety of the digital spaces we inhabit.
Dr Ng Boon Seng
'Building a safer online community starts with every one of us, right where we are, with every click we make,' says Dr Ng Boon Seng, chairman of the Mental Health Association of Sarawak (MHAS) Kuching Branch.
For Dr Ng, the responsibility to create a safer online environment lies with each individual.
'Every one of us plays a role in shaping what the internet feels like. When we choose kindness and respect, and stand against online bullying, we help build a safer space for everyone, especially children and teenagers who are more vulnerable,' he said.
Recognising the urgent need to address this issue, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is rolling out a Safe Internet Campaign to combat cyberbullying.
The campaign aims to foster a culture of kindness and accountability online, encouraging young internet users to be active defenders against online harassment.
The subtle yet powerful impact of seemingly minor online interactions cannot be underestimated.
'Even if you are not the one who wrote a mean comment, liking or sharing it sends a message that this behaviour is acceptable, which it is not,' Dr Ng emphasised.
Cyberbullying is often dismissed as harmless or 'just words', but its consequences can be profound and long-lasting. Each 'like', share, or emoji can add fuel to harmful behaviour, normalising cruelty and widening its reach to others who may join in.
Victims frequently experience feelings of isolation, fear, and shame, which can lead to anxiety, depression, and withdrawal from social spaces such as schools, workplaces, and family activities.
According to Dr Ng, a 2021 Unesco report found that one in three young people worldwide have experienced online bullying.
'In Malaysia alone, MCMC recorded nearly 2,000 cyberbullying complaints in 2022, but many more cases go unreported.'
He explained that support begins with simple but meaningful actions from friends, families, teachers, and peers.
'Listen without judgement, reassure victims that they are not alone, and guide them to take steps such as blocking bullies, keeping evidence, and reporting incidents to the authorities,' he said.
Even small gestures of support can significantly reduce the sense of isolation victims feel, letting them know that they are seen and supported.
Creating a supportive online community can reduce feelings of fear and shame for victims.
'When people reach out with kindness or defend someone who is being bullied, it reminds victims that there are people who care,' Dr Ng said.
'A strong, positive online community can help people feel safe again and reduce feelings of shame and fear.'
However, he said this requires a significant shift in how society perceives online behaviour.
'We need to move away from thinking, 'It's just a joke' or 'It's only online'. The reality is that online bullying can hurt just as much as bullying in person.'
He added that teaching digital responsibility from a young age, encouraging children to treat others online with respect, and recognising those who stand up against bullying can help foster a culture that rejects harassment in all its forms.
'Standing up to cyberbullying can be intimidating, with many fearing they will become the next target or not knowing how to respond effectively.
'That is understandable. However, you can still support victims quietly, report harmful posts, and share positive messages. The more people who take a stand, the less powerful bullies become, and the more supported victims feel,' Dr Ng said.
Anonymity is often cited as a factor that fuels online harassment, providing individuals with a false sense of security that they can act without consequence.
Dr Ng said anonymity gives a false sense of power, and is a reminder of why values and accountability are essential, especially when no one is watching.
He said encouraging kindness, empathy, and responsibility in online spaces, regardless of whether one's identity is known, is crucial in addressing this issue.
Even for those not directly targeted by online harassment, constant exposure to negativity online can have a detrimental impact on emotional well-being.
'It's similar to secondhand smoke where it affects you even if you are not the one being targeted,' Dr Ng explained.
He recommends taking regular breaks from social media, engaging in physical activities, and curating social media feeds to include more positive, educational, or inspiring content to protect mental well-being.
The fight against cyberbullying is not solely the responsibility of individuals; it requires a collective effort from schools, families, communities, and organisations.
Schools can incorporate online safety and respect into their curriculum, while families should create open lines of communication with their children about their online experiences.
'Community organisations and NGOs like MHAS can organise workshops, awareness campaigns, and provide mental health support for victims and their families,' Dr Ng said.
Digital literacy and mental health awareness can equip young people with the tools they need to navigate the online world safely.
By teaching students how to respond to negativity online, how to report inappropriate behaviour, and how to support peers who may be victims of bullying, schools play a pivotal role in shaping a safer online environment.
Families, too, are a crucial part of this ecosystem. Conversations at home about kindness, empathy, and respect can help children understand the consequences of their actions online.
Parents should monitor online activities where appropriate and foster an environment where children feel safe discussing their online experiences, including the challenges they face.
Communities and organisations can supplement these efforts by providing platforms for dialogue, peer support, and intervention.
Campaigns, workshops, and mental health services can raise awareness and equip individuals with the necessary tools to combat cyberbullying effectively.
'At the end of the day, the fight against cyberbullying requires all of us to step up,' said Dr Ng.
'By choosing empathy over indifference and action over silence, we can create a digital space where respect, safety, and kindness are the norms, not the exceptions.'
The internet is a powerful tool that connects people, fosters learning, and provides entertainment. Yet, it should never be a place where individuals feel unsafe or threatened.
Each click, share, and post can either contribute to or combat the culture of online bullying. Together, as individuals and as a community, we have the power to ensure that our digital spaces are spaces of positivity, support, and respect.
