(Un)Popular Opinion | I strongly urge all social media users to be respectful of one another. Malaysians often have the innate impulse to misuse the platform to hurl insults, pass rude comments, and at times even humiliate others especially when it comes to heated conversations and opposing opinions.
Please stop this. Be courteous, matured and responsible towards one another. Yes, free speech is exactly what it is, but don’t abuse it in this manner. We are all equals and don’t have to stoop this low to make our thoughts known.
The audacity of some individuals to comment whatever their hearts desire without a care for the feelings of others is usually derived from the cover or even the illusion of anonymity that social media platforms offer.
There have also been instances of late where social media users change the spelling of the names of prominent people via wordplay just to ridicule them. There is no need to resort to such childish actions of trivializing names and ranks.
Have the decency and manners to respect someone’s name. Do not make light of a person’s name just because it brings some childish gratification. We are all mature enough to know this.
If one has been awarded with an Order, Decoration, or Medal at a federal or state level, address the person accordingly regardless of whether you believe whether he/she is deserving of it. Respect the awarding state and sovereignty of Malaysia. This is the patriotic thing to do.
As we have recently celebrated our 64th National Day, let us take a moment to reflect. We are not out of the woods yet in regards to the Covid-19 pandemic. Thus, it is imperative of us to make the necessary changes in becoming a better person. The strengthened sense of hope and togetherness will soon serve to benefit everyone.
Let the Malaysian spirit of unity serve as a guide for us to pull out of this storm together.
Cover Images via Esther and NST
Proofreader: Sarah Yeoh
