Fahmi Fadzil encourages mindful sharing online amidst nationwide digital push

Communications minister Fahmi Fadzil is encouraging mindful usage of social media. Appearing in an episode of Ini Kopi Kita - Sembang Anak Malaysia, a talk show produced by the Department of Information, the minister addressed fear of missing out (FOMO), excessive online sharing and how it impacts online users in today's digital era. 

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The minister believes that FOMO can make someone more attuned to current issues as they are more inclined to seek information online and act quickly.  Reflecting on his own experience, Fahmi said he had learnt of COVID-19 when it first broke out via news he chanced upon during an overseas trip in London. 

"If we know what is happening now, we can find out if it is dangerous," said Fahmi. "Individuals with FOMO will seek immediate information about the nature of the epidemic." 

However, he adds that there needs to be a line between FOMO and obsession. 

"If we don't become too obsessed, that's something we can consider as a positive thing. If we obsess, that's a bit too much. I think if we know where the line is, it's fine," added Fahmi. 

In the same episode, Fahmi said that not everything posted online - whether via an influencer or a regular person - is real. "Sometimes we forget that when people produce content, it's actually manufactured," said Fahmi. "Content is content. It's not real life." 

He emphasised that users should not blindly follow trends or luxurious lifestyles portrayed by certain influencers. 

"When we watch content, we don't follow along with influencers as they may have their own agenda to sell products," added Fahmi. "In this digital age, we have to also be careful of scammers and impersonators." 

The minister also added that social media is a way companies make money and addressed how there needs to be awareness when it comes to excessively sharing online. "Don't be a slave to social media. Social media is a way companies make money from our data. They make money from us, and our ideas, and our creativity. We're giving up our privacy," said Fahmi. 

"My advice is that we should be careful. Don't be a slave to the screen, treasure your privacy. There are certain things you want the public to know, there are certain things you don't have to share." 

Earlier this month, the communications minister reportedly reminded influencers to take extra care when they handle podcasts or upload content on social media to prevent negative effects on the community. He also said that the government will carry out periodic monitoring and study actions that may be taken against influencers who upload non-constructive content. 

Furthermore, he will be holding meetings with TikTok and other social media operators to discuss the issue of children’s safety online.

These efforts come at a time where Malaysia is having a nationwide digital push. This is especially since almost 70% of the country's RM225 billion approved investments are in the digital economy, according to Investment, Trade and Industry minister Zafrul Abdul Aziz. 

In an interview with CNN, the minister reportedly explained that the country has what it takes to power artificial intelligence (AI) and bring the whole ecosystem into Malaysia. 

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