SOCIAL media is a powerful tool. No doubt about it. It can be used to control the narrative, boost popularity of certain individuals or highlight pertinent social issues.
It can also be used to bully, intimidate and terrorise via the usual ‘mob rules’ herd mentality that sees large numbers of netizens make life a living hell for targeted individuals. Pouring scorn and vitriol on an individual online is a serious problem that has been rearing its ugly head in Malaysia.
This was most certainly the case for performing artiste Shila Amzah who was forced to retreat from social media citing a “toxic environment” that has her fearing for her mental health.
This comes amidst backlash after the singer whose real name is Nurshahila Amir Amzah posted images of her performance at Hausboom Music 2023 on Sunday (Sep 10).
She was pictured wearing a pink long-sleeved shirt over a white t-shirt. However, certain social media users took offence at her dressing, claiming it was not suitable with her tudung wearing image.
The criticism of her attire was bad enough for the singer to state that she was taking a break from social media platforms.
Firstly, it must be recognised that social media is a hugely important marketing tool for modern artistes. It is a means for them to reach out to their fans. Forcing Shila to shy away from her own social media platforms is akin to compelling her to stop earning a living.
As far as it can be seen, Shila has not broken any laws or caused any unwarranted controversy ala The 1975’s on stage kiss. She is being harangued for wearing a pink shirt that apparently offends the sensibilities of certain conservatives.
Secondly, why can’t these conservatives accept that if they do not like a singer or her choice of attire, they do not have to visit the artiste’s social media platforms. Why must they brow beat others into adhering to their moral code?
This is an increasingly worrying trend as the conservative element seem hell bent on forcing society at large to constantly tip toe around their egg shell-like moral sensibilities.
Citizens who wish to live in a progressive society where their lifestyles are not dictated by the conservative faction need to speak up in support of artistes like Shila.
Do not let the narrow-minded become the de facto voice of the people or let them become the self-appointed moral police.
Shila deserves to continue earning a living as a performing artiste without having to bow to unreasonable demands or be subject to toxic comments that have so obviously affected her mental well-being.
Right-thinking Malaysians need to stop this wave of conservatism that threatens to destroy the fabric of our multi-cultural society which was founded on moderate values of tolerance and acceptance. – Sept 12, 2023
