#malaysia citizenship

[thisisbjoeblog]

History 101: Famous Malaysian Indians & Their Major Achievements

Malaysia’s rich cultural tapestry is woven together by the diverse communities that call this beautiful country home. Among these communities, the Indian diaspora has played a significant role in shaping the nation’s history and development since achieving independence, known as Merdeka, in 1957. Image source: Aliran Continue reading History 101: Famous Malaysian Indians & Their…

[handweavers]

"‘Trans man’ remains the preferred identity for Malaysian individuals who were Assigned female at birth but live their adult lives as men. The jettison-ing of pondan, pak nyah, wanita keras, tomboy and pengkid in favour of ‘trans man’ likely serves as a ratification of personal-communal empowerment and a repudiation of derision. It is even more likely that ‘trans man’ reflects a deep-seated desire to imitate and participate in ‘collective identifcation’, notably that which is cultivated in North American (and European) contexts, ‘in order to demand rights, equal citizenship, and welfare’ among other goals in Malaysia. This is hardly surprising. Technological advances facilitate unprecedented accessibility to copious resources on transgender issues and imagine a global transgender community in borderless solidarity. Travis S. K. Kong points out however, that ‘globalization is an uneven process that reproduces spatially uneven development, and the flow of capital, commodities, people, images, and ideas is never equal among locations’.

The Malaysian trans man thus experiences unequal and unstable access to the bounty of globalisation due to local limitations in education, economic means, social and cultural capital, class, ethnicity, religious affliation, educational levels, infrastructure and health services. He continues to be experience ‘disjunctive modernities’ which exhibit ‘irreducible plurality and local specifcity’, thus dispelling the myth of trans(national) homogeneity in transgender identity. The trans men I interviewed interpret their life stories through the rubric of local contexts that dispel any suspicion of a mere mimicry of western-styled transgender identities. Malaysian re/mouldings of ‘trans man’ speak to ‘experiences of multiplicity in gender identifcation … embedded within specifc social, cultural, and interpersonal contexts [that] create altogether new, emergent forms of experience and identity'."

— J. N. Goh, Becoming a Malaysian Trans Man

[mapsontheweb]

Countries Where You Cannot Give Up Your Citizenship

by dailyworldmaps

Lighter colour indicates countries where it is technically legal to relinquish your citizenship, but doing so is practically impossible. In Malaysia, Pakistan & The Bahamas, you must be older than 21 to relinquish your citizenship.

[jujusjunk]

I think that without the anti-apostasy laws in Afghanistan, Iran, Malaysia, Maldives, Mauritania, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia and stigma Islam would be a far smaller religion. I know quite a few “Muslims” that are functionally atheist, even saying that they hate Islam, it’s the worst religion ever, etc. but don’t want to risk the family drama of being open. Can only imagine that it’s even worse in countries where they’ll execute you for leaving Islam.

Believe it or not I don’t think so. Also countries don’t execute you for leaving Islam. That’s not a thing. You can pretty easily leave the country to leave Islam for example in Jordan as a Muslim Jordanian I can’t legally become a Christian in Jordan but what I can do is go to Lebanon, convert, come here, and state that I am now a Christian, no execution no nothing🤷🏻‍♀️. Now if your Kuwaiti and you do this the passport will be taken from you and you will no longer be Kuwaiti because the Kuwaiti citizenship is only for Muslims. Now in Saudi, you can do the same outside the country but if you do it inside the country it is punishable by death (but they don’t really carry out the death penalty anymore) the last execution was on march 12,2022 because of terrorism related charges and for holding deviant beliefs (meaning they worship the devil and or dabble in black magic)

Now I don’t think a Muslim (for example me) given the chance I wouldn’t convert tbh. I love Islam as a religion, for it is perfect. The people practicing are not. The way Islam is portrayed in the media is the opposite of what Islam is. Now if I were to ask an American for example about Islam the first thing to come to mind is ISIS, but isis is an American funded terrorist group. That has literally nothing to do with Islam.

Also the Muslims who say they hate Islam probably have bad experiences with family, because again it is the people practicing that are not perfect. For example my family isn’t perfect, they use Islam as an excuse for this imperfection. That doesn’t mean I blame Islam for the what’s happening, I blame the people. It is what it is yknow. There’s a lot more to talk about but I think my point is through, I don’t think Islam would dwindle in size if the governments made a change🤷🏻‍♀️.

[mariacallous]

The Russian State Duma has introduced a bill to ban the adoption of Russian children by citizens of countries where gender transitions are legal.

What countries would be affected?

The ban would affect not just E.U. member states but also countries like Bolivia, Bhutan, Kyrgyzstan, and Pakistan, among others. However, according to an explanatory note attached to the bill, the restrictions are primarily aimed at NATO countries.

What countries would be left?

Judging by a report from the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA), as of 2020, there were 39 countries whose laws would likely exempt them from Russia’s proposed ban. Most of these countries are in Africa, South America, and Asia.

Algeria

Benin

Burundi

Cameroon

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Egypt

Gambia

Liberia

Morocco

Nigeria

Rwanda

Tanzania

Tunisia

Uganda

Jordan

Myanmar

Brunei

Oman

Philippines

United Arab Emirates

San Marino

Bahamas

Belize

Dominica

El Salvador

Grenada

Haiti

Honduras

Nicaragua

Kiribati

Marshall Islands

Tonga

Vanuatu

Kuwait

Malawi

Indonesia

Malaysia

Lebanon

South Sudan

Do citizens of these countries currently adopt many Russian children?

None, at least according to official statistics. In 2023, foreign citizens are recorded as having adopted just six children from Russia; in five cases, the parents were Italian citizens, and in one case, they were French citizens. Both Italy and France allow gender transitions.

In its summary of last year’s adoptions by foreigners, the Russian Supreme Court mentions 16 cases; however, in the 10 cases not included in official statistics, the adopting parties were the children’s stepfathers. Their citizenship was not included in the summary due to privacy laws, but the proposed amendments would not affect them regardless of citizenship, because the process of adoption by stepparents is regulated by different legislation.

Only six in total? Were adoptions by foreigners more common before the war?

Yes, though the adoption rate of Russian children by foreign parents began to fall as early as 2012, when Russia banned the adoption of Russian children by U.S. citizens. In 2012, foreign citizens adopted 2,604 Russian children; in 2019, they only adopted 240.

[climatecalling]

The Bajau people have been crisscrossing the waters of the Sulu Sea for centuries, the world’s only community of self-sufficient sea nomads. To the Bajau, a “border” is merely the farthest distance they can reach by boat. ... Life for the Bajau became more complex in the colonial era when Malaysia, the Philippines and Indonesia created maritime borders in the Sulu zone: these frontiers were established in the Madrid protocol of 1885, without bothering to consider the distribution and diversity of the ethnic groups who lived there. But it was the Malaysian Immigration Act of 1959/1963 that most significantly changed things for the Bajau. This legislation failed to distinguish between asylum seekers, refugees, irregular migrants and undocumented or stateless individuals. ... As of 2023, only about 100 to 200 Bajau still live in the traditional “Lansa” houseboats near the eastern Malaysian city of Semporna. Lacking citizenship or formal rights to settle on the Borneo mainland, the Bajau of Philippine origins still preserve maritime hunting techniques passed down through generations. ... Out in the vastness of the Sulu Sea, the Bajau stand as emblems of self-sufficiency, but once they set foot ashore they find themselves relegated to the lowest social class. Their stateless status deprives them of government privileges: the children cannot access public schools and adults are prohibited from finding formal employment.

[ketbow]

REFLECTIVE JOURNAL OF SOCIAL COHESION BETWEEN ROHINGYA AND MALAYSIAN AT KAMPUNG SEBERANG BALOK

The Rohingya are an ethnic minority group primarily residing in Myanmar (Burma), a country in Southeast Asia. They are predominantly Muslim and speak a dialect of the Bengali language. The Rohingya have faced a long history of discrimination, marginalization, and persecution in Myanmar. The government of Myanmar has denied them citizenship and restricted their access to basic rights and services, such as healthcare, education, and freedom of movement. The Rohingya have been subjected to various forms of human rights abuses, including violence, forced labor, sexual assault, and mass displacement. Due to the ongoing persecution, many Rohingya people have been forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in neighboring countries. Malaysia is one of the countries that has received a significant number of Rohingya refugees. Malaysia has been seen as a relatively more welcoming country for Rohingya refugees than Myanmar and other neighboring countries. Rohingya refugees often undertake dangerous journeys, including by boat, to reach Malaysia. 

This self-reflection journal is written as the experience to do a survey about Rohingya and Malaysian. Including their safety, assurance, finances, and their count of households. For Malaysian, we make a survey about Rohingyas’ activity and their comfortable living with Rohingya. Social cohesion reflects the level of harmony, cooperation, and shared values among individuals and groups within a society. Hence, our project aims to seek factors that affect social cohesion between Rohingya and Malaysian communities in the Balok area. Using the questionnaires, we interviewed 20 Rohingya households and 12 Malaysian households in the Balok area. In this project, it is proven there are social cohesion challenges between the Rohingya and Malaysians. 

For the preparation before moving to Kampung Seberang Balok. We discussed the souvenirs with the respondents and the leader of the Rohingya society. We decided to book the IIUM bags and some refreshments there. We also decided to prepare 30 questionnaires for both Rohingya and Malaysian respondents.  The preparation took us about three days to buy and prepare them. For the community leader, we decided to give him a mini jug as a souvenir. For my small preparation, I brought my personal camera for the event as our proofs media. On that day, we assembled at IIUM Kulliyyah of Science (KOS) main lobby for the van at 8.00 a.m. Our lecturer, Dr Asmida gave us some briefing about the place we will go and some advice. She told me that the majority of Rohingya there can’t speak Bahasa Melayu fluently. That might be a big challenge when progressing the survey. So we maybe need a translator such as a community leader. Additionally, two of my team are international students. So they need two translators to translate Bengali to Bahasa Melayu, then from Bahasa Melayu to English. Subsequently, at about 9.00 a.m., the van came. We reached there about 10 a.m. 

On the survey spot. We get appreciated by the community leader and some of the Rohingyas. Then we gave the souvenirs to the community leader and have a photo.

My objective is to interview 3 Rohingya and 2 Malaysian households. The environment is quite messy and unmanaged-well. For my first survey, the Rohingya is quite blundered when he spoke since he can’t speak Bahasa Malaysia well. To deal with this problem and make it go well, I decided to ask him in a simpler way to make him answer confidentially. For instance, I asked him a yes or no question first, then use some body language to enhance our communication. After that, I helped my international friend to do a survey by being her translator. Since Rohingya can’t speak English well. I volunteered to translate for her to smooth this experience. From this interview, I learned that most Rohingya can’t speak fluently, or even worse than that. I personally think that they are not educated well. Since they do not have enough money to make it. I’m touched by one of the Rohingya. He stated that he don’t have any money to bring his daughter to the hospital. He begged me and IIUM community to help him. His daughter have a fever for about 3 days and he cried over me, showing his desperation. After three of the Rohingya had been interviewed, we moved to the Malaysian community to do a survey. It was a little exhausting since it was a sunny day and in the afternoon. We found that it was easier since both of us can speak Bahasa Malaysia well. Time passed by, and we finished doing a survey at 2.00 p.m. 

After finishing the program, I need to gather all the surveys and conclude them. To be honest, the result is quite unsatisfactory. To summarize, Malaysian isn’t happy enough living with Rohingya due to difference in culture, poor hygiene, and environment. My personal thought is the egoistic and stigmatization against Rohingyan by Malaysian. I felt sympathy toward the Rohingya, they are not want to live here. It’s due to the war in their country makes them have no choices. The government is not controlling their immigration either legal or illegal. As Islam, we need to protect their safety by giving them a house and the right to work. I really hope Malaysians are not discriminated against them. As a student, my power is superficial, but in the next program, I will help them with financial support and assure a harmonious environment with Malaysian. I read the news that IIUM officially takes Rohingya refugees to study on its campus. It was one step closer to help them and give the right to live in this country. From these sustainable issues, I learned that all people need to be served equally and stop discrimination and racism. Because it will give a huge negative impact on the country.

Prepared by : Muhammad Syakir bin Ramli (2115197)

SCSH-2163 Section 830

[daenerysoftarth]

Massachusetts has some archaic law that says marriages won’t be public record if birth parents of either spouse, or both, were not married at the time of the spouse’s birth.

https://www.mass-doc.com/massachusetts-restricted-marriage-records.htm

And I recently just found out that children born out of wedlock in Malaysia don’t get birth certificate, become stateless, and cannot attend national schools without Malaysian citizenship. Like, imagine the trauma of having your father, your country, and the society you live strip away your every sense of belonging.

https://suhakam.org.my/portfolio/stateless-children/

https://www.thevibes.com/articles/news/70106/merdeka-merely-a-dream-for-malaysias-stateless-children

https://www.wikiimpact.com/6-horrible-realities-of-unwed-single-mothers-in-malaysia/

Yet another set of laws which aim to systematically disenfranchize children born out of wedlock and unmarried mothers as a whole. Thank you so much for sending me these, I'm absolutely going to include these resources in the 'bastardphobia' master post which I'm currently working on. I'm hoping this eventual master post can serve as a reference for those of us in the asoiaf fandom (and outside of it) to use as evidence and proof against those who claim that this form of prejudice no longer exists, is lessened to such as extent so as to be negligible, or who simply agree that it's okay.

Thank you so much for your ask!

[ink-earnest]

Resume

October 2023-Present day: Art Editor of Novelette Magazine, an independent, digitally published magazine based out of Delhi. I design up to 30 pages per issue using the Adobe Creative Suite

December 2022-Present day: Chief Art Editor of quarterly published school magazine, Aftab Zaar, designing 30-50 pages per issue using the Adobe Creative Suite

March 2021-Present day: regular content writer for the Editorial Board of DPS Srinagar, work published in prestigious Kashmiri daily: Greater Kashmir and Rising Kashmir. Editor of submissions received from school students.

July 2024: Main Speaker of Graphic Design workshop at TechKnow 2024, sponsored by Khyber Cement, Physics Wallah, Rehmat Spices and RedFM Radio. Attendance of 400+ students from around the state, taught the basics of Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop.

May 2024: Chaired the IP (International Press) Committee at DIMUN (Diplomacy Initiative MUN) as Editor-in-Chief of Photography 

13th March 2024: Second place in state level Graphic Design Competition held by JKDSM and IndiaSkills.

August 2023-January 2024: Completed “Advanced Certificate on Global Citizenship for Social Impact” through the AFS Global STEM Accelerators program on a full scholarship alongside a world-wide cohort, culminating in a University of Pennsylvania, Center for Social Impact Strategy and AFS-evaluated capstone project and presentation. The certification totals to 51 hours of active learning.

The capstone prototype was the “Analysis Almanac”, with the following problem statement: To create a product for the general public who have mixed opinions on political and social conflicts which will enable them to educate themselves and others, so they may understand where their biases lie

The passing grade was issued with the following comments: "Excellent presentation, Zainab! Great use of the public narrative and articulation of the problem statement. Great job developing your prototype, Analysis Almanac. It is a wonderful idea to support people in critically thinking about their beliefs, question their biases, and foster a more open-minded perspective on diverse perspectives. Wishing you luck as you work to promote peace, justice and more inclusive societies."

December 2023: Selected for AFS Inter-Cultural Exchange program to Malaysia from 2024-2025 on a scholarship worth $3,000. Due to personal conflicts of interest, I declined the offer.

October 2023: Undersecretary of Technology for DPSMUN, first independent MUN in the state, with attendance of 300+ delegates and $4,800 revenue (regional level)

August 2023: Main speaker at TechKnow, conducted a two-day workshop with 40 students from various schools of the state to teach them the basics of graphic design in Canva.

June 2023: First place in “Logo Design and Doodling” competition at NIT Srinagar’s Techvaganza (state-level event). NIT Srinagar is ranked 24th best engineering college in India by India Today

25 May-6 June 2023: Participated in the two-week leadership program TSAALS, on a full scholarship worth $1,200. The program is organised by the Ananta Aspen Centre in collaboration with Shri Ram School. (National program, attendance of 80+ students from all over India)

[thisisbjoeblog]

Economy 101: MM2H Programme - The Good, Bad & the Ugly

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, introduced in 2002 by the Malaysian government, is a unique initiative that offers numerous benefits to both the country and its foreign residents. Image source: Possessed Photography on Unsplash Continue reading Untitled

[handweavers]

lets turn this conversation back to asia lmao. i also find it interesting how these terms have shifted here in seasia. grew up pretty much understanding that asians that come here are immigrants while white people that come here are expats, even if the white people give up their citizenship. what i find interesting is that recently there has been a shift, rich people from other asian countries are also being labelled as "exapts" whether or not they plan to migrate back. however the racism still prevails - people who were completely fine with white expats are complaining and protesting about asian expats stealing their jobs. you'll never see a poor asian person get the expat treatment though, even if they are only here to make some money and go back in a few years. there's your nuance random commentor

exactly, like you'll never see an indonesian or filipino woman who comes to work as a maid in malaysia or singapore to make some money and go back in a few years being called an expat, she is always an "immigrant" but a wealthier person from south korea or japan doing white collar work may now be described as an "expat" much like westerners. like you said, white people who immigrate permanently and even take up citizenship are still called "expats" and not "immigrants" because the word "immigrant" has racial and class connotations. my mom is a white canadian who immigrated to malaysia and has had PR for 20+ years but she's only ever called an expat, not an immigrant. whereas my (malaysian indian) dad in canada has held canadian PR for 40+ years and he's only ever been called an immigrant, even though he had no intention of staying permanently.

[highereducation01]

Malaysia's Magnificent Universities: Your Gateway to Global Education

Malaysia has emerged as a beacon of educational excellence in Southeast Asia, attracting students from around the world who seek a high-quality education at an affordable price. With its diverse culture, modern infrastructure, and globally recognized institutions, Malaysia offers a unique opportunity for students to pursue their academic dreams. Whether you're interested in a degree Malay, engineering, business, or the arts, Malaysia's universities provide a rich and enriching environment for learning.

A Diverse Educational Landscape

One of the most remarkable aspects of Malaysia's higher education system is its diversity. The country boasts a wide range of universities, from established public institutions to private colleges, each offering a unique blend of programs and cultural experiences. This variety allows students to choose an institution that best fits their academic and personal needs.

Malaysian universities are renowned for their comprehensive curriculum, which often includes international perspectives and collaborations with foreign institutions. Many universities have established partnerships with leading universities across the globe, allowing students to benefit from exchange programs and dual degree options. This global approach to education ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the competitive job market.

Quality Education at Affordable Prices

One of the most significant advantages of studying in Malaysia is the cost-effectiveness of its higher education system. Tuition fees in Malaysia are generally lower than those in Western countries, making it an attractive option for international students. Additionally, the cost of living in Malaysia is relatively affordable, allowing students to experience a high quality of life without breaking the bank.

Many universities in Malaysia are recognized by international accrediting bodies, ensuring that the education provided meets global standards. This quality assurance means that students can pursue their degrees with confidence, knowing that their qualifications will be recognized internationally.

A Multicultural Experience

Studying in Malaysia offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a multicultural environment. With a diverse population comprising Malays, Chinese, Indians, and various indigenous groups, Malaysia is a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. This diversity enriches the learning experience, as students engage with peers from different backgrounds and perspectives.

The vibrant cultural scene in Malaysia extends beyond the classroom. Students can participate in various cultural festivals, culinary experiences, and community events that celebrate the country's rich heritage. This exposure to different cultures fosters a sense of global citizenship and prepares students to thrive in a multicultural world.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Malaysia's universities are equipped with modern facilities that enhance the learning experience. From well-stocked libraries to advanced laboratories and cutting-edge technology, students have access to resources that support their academic pursuits. Many universities also provide comfortable accommodation options, sports facilities, and recreational areas that contribute to a well-rounded university life.

Additionally, the integration of technology in education has transformed the way students learn. Online resources, virtual classrooms, and digital libraries make it easier for students to access information and collaborate with peers, both locally and internationally.

Career Opportunities and Industry Connections

Malaysian universities maintain strong connections with various industries, providing students with valuable opportunities for internships, networking, and job placements. These partnerships ensure that academic programs are aligned with industry needs, equipping graduates with the skills and knowledge required to excel in their chosen fields.

Many universities also offer career services that assist students in preparing for the job market, including resume writing workshops, interview preparation, and job fairs. These resources help students make informed career choices and enhance their employability upon graduation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Malaysia's magnificent universities serve as gateways to global education, offering diverse programs, affordable tuition, and a rich multicultural experience. With a commitment to quality education and strong industry connections, Malaysia is an ideal destination for students seeking to pursue their academic goals. Whether you're considering a degree in Malay or exploring other fields, Malaysia's higher education institutions provide the tools and opportunities needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. Embrace the chance to study in this vibrant country and embark on a journey that will shape your future.

[wengdotlam]

Week 11 Digital Citizenship and Conflict: Social Media Governance

Welcome to Lam’s Blog

Glad to see you again buddies! Hope you guys already know about much digital communities' knowledge through all this week’s blog. If you are my new digital com baby, welcome to check out my blog and have fun discussion with me!!!

I believe you guys know what's responsible for being a digital citizen so today I will be talking about —Digital Citizenship and Conflict: Social Media Governance. 

Digital Citizenship plays a big role in digital social media, digital citizens should be respective, responsible, and careful about what they say and what they post on social media, because if you don’t it will cause serious conflict such as Cyberbullying and Online harassment (US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights 2022).

When these conflicts are really happening, social media governance will fit into justice. Social Media Governance indeed plays a crucial role in maintaining a balance between user safety and freedom of expression. Social media governance involves the policies and practices being proposed to protect users while acknowledging the influence of social media on society (Dwyer 2010). It can avoid conflicts by promoting a positive social media world and quickly addressing harmful behavior. It’s like having a set of rules for a community to ensure everyone plays nice.

The malay mails (2022) stated that Malaysia was ranked second in Asia for cyberbullying among youth in 2020, according to a UNICEF report. Social media's popularity has fostered cyberbullying, affecting both youths and adults. Jessie Yong Tse Shing, a researcher, attributes this to unmet basic human needs, leading individuals to project their unhappiness online. Cyberbullies often face higher loneliness and social incompetence. Initiatives like the NETHICS campaign and Project #Cybercancelled aims to address cyberbullying through education and support. At that time, Malaysia’s social media governance improve better after NETHICS campaign and Project #Cybercancelled by heightened awareness and education young generation in Malaysia how to behave online and how to do with people cyberbullying or online harassment They're learning the right way to act on social media and how to handle cyberbullying when it happens. 

The pressing need to address cyberbullying in Malaysia has spurred action from a number of organizations, including the public and business sectors, NGOs, and educational institutions. They work together to educate the public, offer support, and increase awareness of the significance of stopping cyberbullying. Malaysia also spread information that Malaysia will manage social media governance by using Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (improper use of network facilities, like cyberbullying and online harassment) to ensure a safe digital world (thestar 2022).

Moreover,The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) received 3,199 cyberbullying complaints in 2023, with 93% addressed and closed. Most complaints involved Facebook, followed by WhatsApp and Instagram. The majority of reports were from individuals aged 30-40, with women making up 51%. Common issues included bullying, intimidation, and misuse of personal information. Experts stress the need for specific cyberbullying laws, citing severe impacts on mental health, including depression and suicidal thoughts (Nabilla 2024).

To sum up, studying social media governance and digital citizenship are essential for a digital citizen. To decrease the victim of cyberbullying and online harassment.  We should contribute the education and being responsible online to building a safer and more encouraging online community. Let’s build a healthy digital world.

Please feel free to comment about digital citizenship and social media governance in your country. Let's continue the discussion with me!

References

Dwyer, T 2010, Media Convergence, Open University Press, Maidenhead.

US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights 2022, What is digital citizenship and why is it important?, US Institute of Diplomacy and Human, viewed 8 June 2024,

<https://usidhr.org/what-is-digital-citizenship-and-why-is-it-important/.>

Nabilla, Q  2024, ‘Over 3,000 cyberbullying complaints recorded in 2023’, TheSun.my, 14 February, viewed 8 June 2024,

<https://thesun.my/local-news/over-3000-cyberbullying-complaints-recorded-in-2023-AK12097214>

Thestar 2022, MCMC| SKMM - address cyberbullying urgently, mcmc.gov.com.my., viewed 8 June 2024, <https://www.mcmc.gov.my/en/media/press-clippings/address-cyberbullying-urgently>

Themalaymails, 2022, Malaysia ranked second in Asia for cyberbullying among youth,themalaymails, 14 January, viewed 8 June 2024, 

<https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2022/01/14/malaysia-ranked-second-in-asia-for-cyberbullying-among-youth/2035100>

US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights 2022, What is digital citizenship and why is it important?, US Institute of Diplomacy and Human, viewed 8 June 2024,

<https://usidhr.org/what-is-digital-citizenship-and-why-is-it-important/.>

Nabilla, Q  2024, ‘Over 3,000 cyberbullying complaints recorded in 2023’, TheSun.my, 14 February, viewed 8 June 2024,

<https://thesun.my/local-news/over-3000-cyberbullying-complaints-recorded-in-2023-AK12097214>

[kazifatagar]

RM200 enough to offset higher diesel price for most users

Finance Minister II Amir Hamzah Azizan says the RM200 monthly cash assistance for diesel vehicle owners will be enough to offset their higher fuel expenditure when diesel prices are floated in Peninsular Malaysia starting today. Amir Hamzah Azizan says the amount was set based on data provided by the Statistics Department. Read More LM News DAP’s purported ‘express’ citizenship programme…

[juliadotsia]

Week 11: Digital Citizenship and Conflict: Social Media Governance

Hello guys welcome back! Have you ever thought about how social media influences the way we act online and how it deals with drama, especially harassment and cyberbullying? Let’s explore digital citizenship, social media governance, and how they relate to online harassment!

First of all, let’s talk about what is digital citizenship. Digital citizenship involves using technology responsibly, safely, and respectfully. It includes protecting private information online, reducing risks from cyber threats, and using information and media in a respectful, informed, and legal manner (Digital Citizenship: What it is & What it Includes | Learning.com 2023). While we live and interact online much like we do offline, we aren't always mindful of our online actions. Sometimes we act without considering the impact on our reputation, safety, and growth as digital citizens. Meanwhile, everything we do online shapes our digital world and identity. Social Media Governance refers to the guidelines, methods, and steps that social media platforms use to control and oversee how users behave and what they post on their platforms (Murthy 2024). The purpose of social media governance is to keep the internet a safe, respectful, and legal place to be while also protecting user rights and free speech.

Do you know that if you don’t use social media wisely will lead to harassment and cyberbullying? These are serious issues that affect many people online. Harassment involves repeated, unwanted behavior that makes someone feel intimidated or threatened. Cyberbullying is a type of harassment that happens specifically online. It can include spreading rumors, sending threatening messages, or publicly humiliating someone. Both can have devastating effects on victims, leading to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. Based on my research, over 3000 cases is reported in Malaysia in 2023 (Rashidi 2024). MCMC also found that Facebook was the most common platform for cyberbullying, with 1,401 reports. WhatsApp came in second with 667, followed by Instagram with 388, TikTok with 258 and X with 159 and both adults and teenagers also reported being harassed within the past 12 months, up from 23% in 2022 to 33% in 2023 for adults, and 36% to 51% for teenagers (Wahab 2023). Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram have their own rules to keep things in check. These rules are supposed to prevent stuff like cyberbullying, fake news, and hate speech. But let's be real—sometimes these platforms don't always get it right. They have to balance free speech with the need to protect users from harmful content.

One big part of social media governance is content moderation. This is where platforms use a mix of algorithms and human moderators to check what’s being posted (Content Moderation Justice and Fairness on Social Media: Comparisons Across Different Contexts and Platforms 2024). While AI can catch some bad stuff, it’s not perfect. Human moderators have the tough job of deciding what stays and what goes, which can be super stressful. One of the examples where conflicts often pop up is when misinformation and fake news, lead to misunderstandings and disputes. Users may share unverified information, which can cause disagreements over what is true (The Role of Social Media in Modern Conflicts n.d.)

Let’s talk about the legal framework for cyberbullying in Malaysia. In Malaysia, there is no existing legal provision specifically to tackle cyberbullying cases in Malaysia. Besides, we can also refer to Section 233 of the Communication and Multimedia Act 1998 which is Improper use of network services, which includes making any comment that is considered offensive, abusive, and intended to harass another person, if anyone is convicted, the offender could be fined of not more than RM50,000 or imprisonment for up to 1 year, or both (Iskandar 2023). Malaysia’s government should take cyberbullying seriously and come out with a legal law for cyberbullying.

So, what can we do as digital citizens? We can start by being mindful of what we post and how we interact with others. Think twice before sharing something controversial or unverified. Be respectful in your comments and conversations. And if you see something harmful, report it. Together, we can make social media a better place.

Reference

Content Moderation Justice and Fairness on Social Media: Comparisons Across Different Contexts and Platforms, 2024. arXiv.org e-Print archive. viewed 27 May 2024. Available at: https://arxiv.org/html/2403.06034v1#:~:text=To%20fight%20harmful%20content%20and,screening%20of%20user-generated%20content%20

Digital Citizenship: What it is & What it Includes | Learning.com, 2023. Learning. viewed 27 May 2024. Available from: https://www.learning.com/blog/what-is-digital-citizenship/

Iskandar, I. M., 2023, Activists want ambiguity in Communications and Multimedia Act cleared up, NST Online, viewed 27 May 2024, Available at: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2023/03/885208/activists-want-ambiguity-communications-and-multimedia-act-cleared

Murthy, S., 2024. Social Media Governance: 9 Essential Components. Sprinklr: Unified AI-Powered Customer Experience Management Platform. viewed 27 May 2024, Available at: https://www.sprinklr.com/blog/social-media-governance/#:~:text=A%20social%20media%20governance%20plan%20is%20a%20structured%20framework%20for,risks%20associated%20with%20social%20media

Rashidi, Q.N.M., 2024, Over 3,000 cyberbullying complaints recorded in 2023, thesun.my, viewed 27 May 2024, Available at : https://thesun.my/local_news/over-3000-cyberbullying-complaints-recorded-in-2023-AK12097214

The Role of Social Media in Modern Conflicts n.d., PCRF, viewed 27 May 2024, https://www.pcrf.net/information-you-should-know/item-1707234928.html

Wahab, F., 2023. ‘Cyberbullying laws need more bite’. The Star. viewed 27 May 2024. Available at : https://www.thestar.com.my/metro/metro-news/2023/07/01/cyberbullying-laws-need-more-bite

[ttakttakmedead]

Week 6 :  What is Digital Citizenship? Hashtag Publics, Political Engagement and Activism

today we won't be talking about handsome men like in my previous blog :(

BUT! Let’s dive into a topic I recently learned in class that's super relevant in our hyper-connected world: Digital Citizenship. You might've heard this term thrown around a lot, especially in the context of social media and online communities, but what does it really mean?

At its core, digital citizenship refers to the responsible and effective use of digital technologies to engage in society, politics, and community. It's all about being aware of the digital world and your role in it. Just like being a good citizen in the physical world involves obeying laws, being kind to neighbors, and participating in community events, digital citizenship encompasses a similar set of principles for the online realm.

One of the most fascinating aspects of digital citizenship is the concept of hashtag publics. Hashtags are powerful tools that unite people around a common cause, idea, or event. They help like-minded individuals find each other and build communities, like #BlackLivesMatter or #FreePalestine, which globally amplify voices.

@/jordsjailacc changed the context of a famous meme and posted with just the hashtag #FreePalestine to raise awareness and thousands of people have reposted and liked it.

Hashtags also make spreading information and raising awareness about important issues easier, as a trending hashtag can draw attention to a cause and educate the masses. (Bonilla, 2015) To join in hashtag activism, all you need to do is "like," "share," or "retweet" posts on Twitter—it's that easy compared to other forms of activism. Hashtags also create spaces for conversation and debate, letting people discuss, share their views, and challenge ideas. Can you believe how powerful hashtags can be?! Let's talk about a case in Malaysia that was raising awareness and making a change through a single hashtag, #MakeSchoolASaferPlace.

Malaysian teenager Ain Husniza Saiful Nizam's journey from an anonymous student to a national leader against school harassment began with her male physical education teacher allegedly joking about rape. Appalled by this, Ain posted a TikTok video in April, which quickly went viral, garnering over 1.8 million views. In the video, she recounted how the teacher suggested that if boys wanted to commit rape, they should target women over 18, leading to laughter among the boys and silence from the girls. Can you imagine how terrifying and sickening was this??? in a high school???

This sparked the #MakeSchoolASaferPlace campaign, with thousands of students sharing their experiences of harassment. Despite facing threats and potential expulsion, Ain's video struck a chord, highlighting the pervasive abuse in Malaysian schools and igniting a national debate on the need for urgent reforms.

Thanks to Ain, more and more students speak out about their experiences through @/savetheschoolsmy on Instagram.

Enough of hashtags, we need to give some attention to political engagement and activism too.

Political engagement and activism have evolved significantly. Digital campaigns on social media platforms are now essential tools for politicians and activists to mobilize support, raise funds, and spread their messages. (Leong, 2015) Platforms like Change.org have simplified creating and signing petitions, enabling individuals to advocate for change globally.

Virtual protests, exemplified by initiatives like #BlackOutTuesday, originating as a response to the killing of George Floyd and in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement, participants posted black squares on their social media feeds to symbolize mourning and to draw attention to racial injustice. Social media facilitates rapid response and mobilization, empowering activists to organize protests, share updates, and maintain momentum with real-time communication.

Being a digital citizen means more than just being online; it means engaging thoughtfully, respectfully, and proactively in our digital spaces. By understanding the power of hashtags and leveraging digital tools for political engagement and activism, we can contribute to positive change in our communities and the world.

remember, with great power comes great responsibility. so let’s all strive to be informed, respectful, and active digital citizens!

thank you, xie xie, kamsahamida, arigato! hope to see u in my next blog! >.<

Reference:

Bonilla, Yarimar and Rosa, Jonathan (2015). # Ferguson: Digital protest, hashtag ethnography, and the racial politics of social media in the United States. American Ethnologist 42, 1, pp. 4–17.

Goswami, Manash. (2018). Social Media and Hashtag Activism.

Leong, Pauline. (2015). Political Communication in Malaysia: A study on the Use of New Media in Politics. JeDEM - eJournal of eDemocracy and Open Government. 7. 46-71. 10.29379/jedem.v7i1.372.

Making schools a safer place: The Malaysian teen who used TikTok to challenge abuse. The Straits Times. (2021, June 2). https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/se-asia/the-malaysian-schoolgirl-using-tiktok-to-challenge-school-abuse

What is Digital Citizenship and why is it important?. USIDHR. (n.d.). https://usidhr.org/what-is-digital-citizenship-and-why-is-it-important/