Think before you post: Why online freedom needs real-world accountability
While it’s natural for people to share their thoughts in this age of instant access, those thoughts should come with a dose of responsibility.
FREEDOM of speech doesn’t give anyone a free pass to be cruel, especially online. While the digital world thrives on opinions, there’s a fine line between constructive commentary and reckless criticism that can damage real lives.
Social media influencers like Dr Shazril Shaharuddin argue that while it’s natural for people to share their thoughts in this age of instant access, those thoughts should come with a dose of responsibility — particularly when they target someone’s character or professional credibility.
“I think people are free to express their opinions, after all, even in Korea, cancel culture can be much harsher. But nowadays, everyone is smart and can search for the truth themselves.
"I think it's okay to hold influencers accountable, but it shouldn't go to the extent that it affects their lives so severely, leading to depression or even suicide.
“We have to accept that, as public figures, we are in the public eye, but there should still be limits,” said Dr Say.
Malaysia has seen heartbreaking cases of depression and even suicide linked to cyberbullying, a chilling reminder that this is neither a new nor trivial issue. It has morphed into a silent poison seeping through our communities, capable of destroying reputations and claiming innocent lives.
One such tragic case involved social media influencer Rajeswary Appahu, affectionately known as Esha. The 29-year-old is believed to have taken her own life after suffering intense pressure and depression caused by relentless online bullying.
With over 183,000 followers on TikTok, Esha was found dead at her home on July 5, 2024, just a day after she lodged a police report in Kuala Lumpur expressing fear of being raped and killed. She had named two individuals in the report, alleging they had been harassing and threatening her on TikTok, including during live sessions.
TikTok Live has turned audience engagement into a double-edged sword. While it fosters real-time connection, it also opens the floodgates for immediate and deeply invasive harassment. There’s no buffer, no edit button, and for many creators, no escape.
Dr Say Shazril pointed out that Malaysia’s version of “cancel culture” is relatively forgiving when compared to countries like South Korea. In Korea, being ‘cancelled’ isn’t just a public scolding, it’s a full-stop on your career. A single controversy can spark nationwide outrage, leading to job losses, brand withdrawals, and in many cases, permanent exile from the entertainment industry.
Unlike in Malaysia, where scandals tend to lose steam and public memory fades fast, South Korea’s cancel culture leaves little room for second chances. Reinvention is nearly impossible; relocation doesn’t guarantee a reset. It’s a high-stakes environment where one misstep can mean total erasure.
Reflecting on his own experience, Dr Say recalled how he faced backlash over issues involving his domestic helper and financial transparency. Many people criticised his actions and tried to "teach" him the right way to handle the situations.
He stated that the controversy had a noticeable impact, engagement on his social media dropped, and his follower count fluctuated significantly.
"As a content creator who relies heavily on social media, I must say this has affected me in many ways.
“Sometimes, I need to take time off to cope. I've always tried to be transparent, and I think those who have followed me for a long time know that what you see online is who I really am in real life,” he said.
Dr Say said that being a public figure often means being seen as "public property".
That being said, he admitted that without his followers, he wouldn’t be where he is today and in that sense andfeels a sense of responsibility and gratitude towards them.
He shared that when netizens offer feedback or advice, he chooses to listen. Instead of deflecting blame, he reflects inwardly and, when needed, takes a short break to reset.
He also highlighted the importance of owning up to one’s mistakes, facing criticism, and using it as an opportunity to grow. According to him, some content creators and influencers produce content that may negatively affect others.
That’s why it’s essential for those with a positive voice to step up and balance out the online space with more thoughtful and meaningful content.
While the pressure to stand out can lead some creators to push boundaries or even cross the line, Dr Say encouraged them, just as he had done, to return to reality, refocus, and understand what their audience truly wants and needs.
He expressed his sincere appreciation for the continued support from his followers, noting that their advice and constructive criticism have shaped his journey. Without them, he said, he wouldn’t have reached his current position.
Singer and actor Alif Satar also shared his thoughts, emphasising that when it comes to social media, there are things that can be shared and others that are best kept private.
He pointed out that internet users span a wide age range, and all content posted online is easily accessible to everyone. If someone shares content that is inappropriate or harmful, it can not only affect how they are perceived by others but may also influence audiences who might imitate what they see.
“It’s just common sense especially if you're a public figure. You never really know who’s watching. It could be children or young people who look up to you, and they might mimic what you post, say, or do online,” he said.
Alif acknowledged that while people have the freedom to do whatever they want online, that freedom often comes with consequences. He urged everyone to use their platforms wisely, as using them the right way can bring positive outcomes but misuse can easily lead to negative repercussions.
Both Alif and Dr Say agreed that there should be limits to what is shared online.
Not every opinion needs to be posted publicly, especially if it’s not helpful or relevant to the wider community.
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