The Paradox of Social Media: The De-democratization of Malaysia
ABSTRACT: Today, social media
is perceived as “the media.” Blogs and bloggers have changed journalism;
YouTube has discovered rare and raw talents; and “the trinity” (Facebook,
Twitter, YouTube) have sparked revolutions. Focusing on end-usersinstead of
producers and its interactive-ness are two paramount characters thatpermit
ordinary people to engage in extra-ordinary activities. From the showbiz topolitics,
social media has left its marks. The World political events in recent years,in
particular Arab Spring of MENA (Middle East and North Africa) have showcased
positive link between social media and democratization. Malaysia hasexperienced
quite a similar phenomenon to MENA in the verge of the 12thGeneral Election
(GE-12), held on March 8, 2008. The failure of the only rulingcoalition,
Barisan Nasional (National Front, or BN) to retain its two-third majority in
the GE-12 is an empirical evident of people’s desire and aspiration for free
andfair elections, good-governance, and democratization which are very
different fromrace-based politics. At a glimpse, the results of the 13th
General Election (GE-13) which was held on May 5, 2013 are quite similar to the
GE-12. Yet, deeper analyses indicated race-base politics and “strong
government” has made a comeback. Hence, this article explores the paradox when
the state is not only interfering but also participating in social media. This
exploration demonstrates social media is not only meant for the masses; and
that by possessing money,machinery, and authority; the state is potentially
dominant at social media.
Author: Leo Agustino
Journal Code: jpadministrasinegaragg150053
