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How Increased Surveillance by the China Government during the Global COVID-19 Pandemic Affects Online Communities?

In the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic, governments worldwide, including China, intensified surveillance measures to curb the virus's spread. In this context, China's implementation of stringent surveillance, notably through Health Code Apps, has raised profound concerns about its impact on online communities. As facial recognition and data collection become intrinsic to daily life, the potential repercussions on digital spaces and the people within them demand careful examination. This discussion delves into the multifaceted consequences of increased surveillance by the Chinese government and its tangible effects on the dynamics of online communities.

Privacy Erosion

In response to the global COVID-19 pandemic, various countries implemented measures to track and control the virus's spread, introducing tools such as contact tracing apps (Ojokoh et al., 2022), temperature checks (Qu & Lv, 2021) and travel restrictions (Burns et al., 2021). Simultaneously, In China, where stringent surveillance measures were already in place, the government leveraged technology to an even greater extent, using facial recognition and health QR codes to monitor citizens' movements. This involved the deployment of a series of applications known as "Health Code Apps," which have raised concerns about privacy erosion, particularly regarding the use of health code applications. Online communities are not immune to this erosion, as the data collected through these apps includes personal information, health status, and location details. This data is then utilized to assign one of three colours, indicating the user's health status (Ramos, 2020). However, Data is funnelled to entities like the provincial Big Data Bureau, Alibaba, and the telecommunications department, expanding the accessibility to user information, ranging from personal details to health status, location, and device specifics. This centralized model amplifies the risks of data aggregation and user re-identification, exemplified by the Beijing Health Bao system's data leak in December 2020. The incident exposed the photographs, ID numbers, and nucleic acid test information of celebrities, highlighting insufficient safeguards in place (Zhang, 2022). Online communities may find their members exposed to privacy breaches, leading to a chilling effect on open communication and expression within these digital spaces.

Potential for Abuse of Power:

The potential for the abuse of power in the context of surveillance, inadequate transparency and compliance measures is a significant concern for online communities as well. This concern is exemplified by recent events in Henan Province, where health code apps were allegedly manipulated to suppress protests related to potential losses in rural banks on the brink of collapse (Zhang, 2022). The legitimacy of these health code apps faced a setback as city officials marked over a thousand individuals as red, restricting their entry into Zhengzhou City and highlighting the vulnerability of such systems to misuse (Zhang, 2022). This incident underscores the potential for health code apps, initially designed for public health purposes, to transform into tools of surveillance, allowing government agencies to exert control under the guise of maintaining public health. The lack of stringent transparency requirements heightens the risk of these technologies being misused for purposes beyond their intended scope, which negatively impacts the freedom of expression within online communities. As governments exploit surveillance tools to monitor and influence online discussions, online communities may face challenges related to censorship and control, further emphasising the interconnected nature of surveillance concerns and their impact on digital spaces.

Technological Dependence:

Embracing extensive surveillance often involves a reliance on advanced technologies. In the case of Health Code Apps, facial recognition technology is integrated into residential area access control systems, permitting entry only to those with a green code (Ramos, 2020), which has implications for online communities. This reliance on advanced technologies may neglect more human-centric approaches to online interaction, potentially excluding or disadvantaging certain members of digital communities. As surveillance technologies become integral to online platforms, the balance between security measures and preserving the inclusivity and diversity of online communities becomes a critical consideration.

Trust Deficit:

The colour-coded system assigned by health code applications has far-reaching consequences for millions of users in their interactions within both physical and online communities. Requiring individuals to display their health codes in public transportation, shopping malls, markets, and other public places may contribute to a trust deficit between citizens and the online platforms they engage with (Jao et al., 2020). Users within online communities may question the motives behind such surveillance measures, especially if their personal information is shared without their knowledge. Rebuilding trust within online communities, once eroded by mandatory health code reliance, poses a considerable challenge, impacting the dynamics of digital social spaces.

In conclusion, the surge in surveillance by the Chinese government amid the global COVID-19 pandemic undeniably leaves a lasting imprint on online communities. The colour-coded system mandated by health code applications not only infiltrates public spaces but also infiltrates the very essence of digital interactions. This imposition triggers a tangible trust deficit within online communities as individuals question the motives behind these surveillance measures. Rebuilding trust within these virtual spaces, essential for vibrant and open communication, becomes a formidable challenge in the aftermath of mandatory health code reliance. The delicate equilibrium between bolstering security measures and safeguarding the inclusivity of online communities emerges as the linchpin for preserving the dynamic and diverse nature of these digital spaces. In essence, the impact of increased surveillance by the Chinese government is intimately intertwined with the well-being and resilience of online communities.

"Considering the implications of increased surveillance by the Chinese government during the global COVID-19 pandemic on online communities, we'd like to hear your perspective. How do you perceive the effects on privacy erosion, potential abuse of power, technological dependence, and the trust deficit within these digital spaces? Share your insights and cast your vote below."

How do you perceive the impact of increased surveillance on online communities during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Significant Concerns

Moderate Concerns

Neutral

Limited Concerns

No Concerns

Voting ended onDec 2, 2023

Reference List

Burns, J., Movsisyan, A., Stratil, J. M., Biallas, R. L., Coenen, M., Emmert-Fees, K., Geffert, K., Hoffmann, S., Horstick, O., Laxy, M., Klinger, C., Kratzer, S., Litwin, T., Norris, S. L., Pfadenhauer, L. M., Von Philipsborn, P., Sell, K., Stadelmaier, J., Verboom, B., . . . Rehfuess, E. (2021). International travel-related control measures to contain the COVID-19 pandemic: a rapid review. The Cochrane Library, 2021(3). https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd013717.pub2

Jao, N., Cohen, D., & Udemans, C. (2020). How China is using QR code apps to contain Covid-19. TechNode. https://technode.com/2020/02/25/how-china-is-using-qr-code-apps-to-contain-covid-19/

Ojokoh, B. A., Aribisala, B. S., Sarumi, O. A., Gabriel, A. J., Omisore, O. M., Taiwo, A. E., Igbe, T., Chukwuocha, U. M., Yusuf, T. A., Afolayan, A., Babalola, O., Adebayo, T., & Afolabi, O. (2022). Contact Tracing Strategies for COVID-19 Prevention and Containment: A scoping review. Big Data and Cognitive Computing, 6(4), 111. https://doi.org/10.3390/bdcc6040111

Qu, J., & Lv, X. (2021). The response measures to the coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak in China. Open Forum Infectious Diseases, 8(2). https://doi.org/10.1093/ofid/ofab014

Ramos, L. F. (2020). Evaluating privacy during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The ACM Digital Library, 176–179. https://doi.org/10.1145/3428502.3428526

Zhang, X. (2022). Decoding China’s COVID-19 health code apps: the legal challenges. Healthcare, 10(8), 1479. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10081479

[kngshuen]

The benefits and drawbacks of social gaming communities

In the vast digital environment, social gaming communities have become active gathering places where people connect and collaborate over a shared love of gaming. These online spaces offer unique benefits and drawbacks that profoundly shape gamers' social lives. As we navigate the intricacies of these communities, it becomes clear that while they provide a haven for social interaction and shared experiences, they also present challenges that require careful consideration. In this exploration, we will uncover the dual nature of social gaming communities and illuminate their role in promoting social life in the digital age.

Before we dive into it, If you are new to this concept, you can explore more about social gaming communities here. Now, let us delve into the complexities of these digital centres and examine the benefits and drawbacks of shaping gamers’ social lives in this unique realm.

The Benefits of Social Gaming Communities:

One of the most significant advantages of social gaming communities is the sense of belonging they cultivate (Molyneux et al., 2015). Within a global context characterized by considerable physical separation, virtual environments serve as a conduit for gamers to establish connections predicated on their mutual fondness for games (Dev, 2023). These online communities serve as digital environments where individuals from diverse backgrounds and locations can interact through multiplayer games, participate in discussions, and bond around each other's passion for gaming. (MetaEngine, 2023). Establishing a sense of community is especially vital in an era when in-person interactions may be scarce, allowing people to express themselves in a digital environment freely.

Moreover, the influence of gaming community collaboration and teamwork extends beyond virtual realms to affect real-world situations. Gamers develop a sense of community by learning to collaborate and assessing one another's strengths and weaknesses (Editor Team, 2022). This dynamic of collaboration reflects how personnel construct robust communities within the professional environment. Furthermore, the practical application of the communication proficiencies emphasized in gaming communities empowers individuals to articulate their thoughts and opinions with efficacy (SkillsYouNeed, 2023). For those who do not have strong offline social skills, gaming is a unique platform to communicate and connect with others. Essentially, the collaboration and communication skills developed in the game are seamlessly linked to real-world community building.

Furthermore, social gaming communities are essential for mental health and emotional support in addition to being places of enjoyment. People who use these online forums to exchange gaming experiences with one another develop a sense of camaraderie that helps them through difficult times. These communities provide a support network to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Concurrently, new research highlights the importance of the community and chat elements, particularly for lonely young men, providing an anonymous "third place" outside the house or workplace (Prochnow, 2023). This space allows individuals to open up, find empathy, and make important social connections that may be lacking in offline life. The combination of emotional support, shared experiences, and unique anonymity these communities offer highlights their profound impact on fostering a sense of belonging and supporting mental health.

The Drawbacks of Social Gaming Communities:

However, it also has some drawbacks, particularly the negative impact of anonymity and over-participation on users' mental health and overall gaming experience. This community can be a breeding ground for issues such as cyberbullying, cheating, and various health issues. For example, the shield of anonymity creates a toxic atmosphere by allowing users to express "rude language, severe criticisms, anger, hatred, and even threats." Most cyberbullying and aggressive behavior occurs from anonymous users, and the negative impact exceeds the negative impact of traditional face-to-face or known perpetrator cyberbullying. The privilege of anonymity perpetuates feelings of frustration, insecurity, and anxiety among victims, thereby intensifying their sense of helplessness in comparison to normal bullying scenarios. Bullies, who are often experienced gamers, use anonymity to intimidate new players, further exacerbating issues like bullying (Grazotis, 2018). Furthermore, excessive participation in online gaming is considered a long-standing problem, affecting mental health as well as physical and social aspects of life. This highlights the interconnected challenges within digital communities, emphasizing the need for responsible and respectful interactions to foster a positive and inclusive social environment within the dynamic landscape of social gaming.

Moreover, privacy is also a concern in digital communities, including social gaming ones. When we share personal information online, there is a risk of it being accessed or misused by others (Team, 2023). It is like being cautious about what we share with strangers—we do not want everyone to know everything about us. Digital communities play a role in our social lives, but exercising caution while using them and safeguarding personal information is important. This emphasizes that, even if these communities promote social contacts, users should be aware of their digital footprint to ensure a secure and safe online social environment.

In conclusion, the benefits and drawbacks combine to shape the delicate digital landscape. While these communities provide virtual havens for socialization, collaboration, and emotional support, they also require thoughtful consideration of potential challenges. The key is to strike a delicate balance—gaining the rewards of community building while mitigating the drawbacks of toxic anonymity and Privacy. As technology advances, the collective responsibility falls on the gaming community to create an environment where individuals can continue to find comfort, connection, and personal growth in an ever-expanding digital social environment.

What's your take on the impact of anonymity in online gaming communities? Share your thoughts and vote below.

Have you personally experienced both positive and negative aspects within social gaming communities?

Yes

No

Voting ended onNov 24, 2023

Reference List

Dev, L. (2023). Why are gamers so passionate about the game industry? Quora. https://www.quora.com/Why-are-gamers-so-passionate-about-the-game-industry

Editor Team. (2022). Teamwork Gaming: The effects of playing video games on teamwork and team performance. Totem - the Feel Good Game. https://store.totemteam.com/blogs/news/teamwork-gaming-the-effects-of-playing-video-games-on-teamwork-and-team-performance

Grazotis, E. (2018). The Negative Effects of Anonymity and Excessive Participation in Online Gaming Communities. Debating Communities and Social Networks 2018 OUA conference. https://networkconference.netstudies.org/2018OUA/2018/04/23/the-negative-effects-of-anonymity-and-excessive-participation-in-online-gaming-communities/

MetaEngine. (2023, July 7). What is a Gaming Community and How to Build One. MetaEngine. https://www.metaengine.gg/blog/what-is-a-gaming-community-and-how-to-build-one

Molyneux, L., Vasudevan, K., & De Zúñiga, H. G. (2015). Gaming Social Capital: Exploring civic value in multiplayer video games. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 20(4), 381–399. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcc4.12123

Prochnow, T. (2023). Online gaming communities could provide a lifeline for isolated young men − new research. The Conversation. https://theconversation.com/online-gaming-communities-could-provide-a-lifeline-for-isolated-young-men-new-research-211558#:~:text=This%20finding%20suggests%20the%20chat,may%20lack%20in%20real%20life

SkillsYouNeed. (2023). Video games and your communication skills. SkillsYouNeed. https://www.skillsyouneed.com/rhubarb/video-games-communication.html

Team, P. (2023). The complete guide to online gaming privacy. Proton VPN Blog. https://protonvpn.com/blog/online-gaming-privacy/

[kngshuen]

Can crowdsourced information during times of crisis (e.g. pandemic, natural disasters) mobilise the public into action (e.g. get to safety, assist those in need, communicate important information, etc.)?

Crowdsourcing

Crowdsourcing, which leverages the capabilities of the internet, social media, and smartphone applications, has developed into a formidable instrument that employs vast groups of individuals' combined expertise and efforts (Hargrave, 2022). This methodology demonstrates particular significance in disaster management and emergency response, providing an expandable and effective strategy for promptly and precisely collecting data. Crowdsourcing in responding to natural disasters such as fires, earthquakes, and floods has engaged communities worldwide. Diverse approaches have emerged from converging multiple theoretical frameworks and practical applications. These methodologies include technical expertise, techniques for gathering data from social networks, categorizing social media messages, analytical models derived from multiple sources, including videos, and a geographic-based approach to social media analysis. The goal is to evaluate the effectiveness of communications, utilize real-time data mining instruments, and produce forecasts derived from Twitter occurrences, all in the spatiotemporal Big Data analysis framework. This multidimensional framework illustrates the dynamic and evolving landscape of crowdsourcing in disaster management (Hunt & Specht, 2019).

As we begin this exploration, we will reveal how crowdsourced information can be a driving force in guiding personal safety, promoting neighbourly solidarity, and promoting effective communication in times of crisis.

Getting to Safety:

During Hurricane Harvey in 2017, crowdsourced information was vital in guiding people to safety (Yang et al., 2019).

Through social media, ordinary citizens disseminate real-time updates regarding road closures, flooded areas, and alternate routes (Chien, 2019). This collective effort helps individuals cope with dangerous situations and facilitates community-led responses by providing information and links to shelters, safe gathering points and essential resources.

Furthermore, apps like Waze, which were once designed for navigation, have developed into platforms where users can exchange real-time information about hazards, accidents, and road conditions (Dev Technosys, 2022). This instance exemplifies the potential of ordinary individuals uniting in times of crisis, demonstrating how crowdsourced information can serve as a lifeline.

Assisting Those in Need:

Crowdsourcing information not only guides individuals to safety; It also fosters a sense of community and encourages people to lend a helping hand (Linnell, 2014). For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, countless examples emerged of neighbours using online platforms to assist those in need. For example, #benderaputih groups were formed on Facebook to share addresses for assistance and information on local food banks, with Malaysians in need flying white flags outside their residences to indicate distress. The digital community, including neighbours, personalities, and businesses, responded by donating food and other necessities, demonstrating the power of crowdsourced information to bring communities together in times of crisis (BBC News, 2021).

Communication of Important Information:

It is critical to communicate effectively in times of crisis (Energy, 2023). During the COVID-19 pandemic, crowdsourced information is crucial in building community resilience (Jewett et al., 2021). People use social media to share real-time updates about testing centre locations, vaccine availability and changes in public health (Medford et al., 2020). This decentralized approach compensates for delays in official communication, allowing individuals to make informed decisions quickly. This collaboration demonstrates the power of crowdsourced information in bridging communication gaps and ensuring important updates are quickly provided to the public during a crisis.

Challenges and Considerations:

Although the undeniable power of crowdsourcing information is present, it also comes with challenges. Rapid dissemination of information through crowdsourcing can be a double-edged sword (Hanine & Steils, 2018). Misinformation and rumours can easily spread during times of crisis, resulting in confusion and potentially dangerous behaviour (Oh, 2013). It is imperative that users exercise critical judgment when confronted with information and only rely on reputable sources to prevent their participation in the propagation of false information.

In conclusion, crowdsourcing information is a powerful force in crisis response. It demonstrates the power of collective action by directing individuals to safety during crises such as Hurricane Harvey and by nurturing neighbourly solidarity throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. As shown by real-time updates on social media, it provides enhanced communication, allowing individuals to make informed decisions quickly. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the challenges of crowdsourcing, particularly the potential for misinformation to spread rapidly. The power of crowdsourced information must be used responsibly, and users must exercise critical judgment and rely on reputable sources to prevent the spread of false information. While crowdsourcing has challenges, its potential to mobilize the public to take action in times of crisis is enormous. As we navigate an evolving technological environment, the collective power of crowdsourced information must be harnessed responsibly to ensure it continues to be a force for positive and impactful collective action.

What are your thoughts on the role of crowdsourced information in mobilizing the public during times of crisis, such as natural disasters or epidemics? Please share your views and experiences below. Have you ever witnessed or been involved in a crowdsourcing effort for safety, assistance a collective effort, or communicating in challenging situations?

Do you believe crowdsourced information plays a crucial role in mobilizing the public into action during times of crisis, such as natural disasters or pandemics, by guiding safety measures, fostering community support, and facilitating effective communication?

Yes

No

Voting ended onNov 18, 2023

Reference List

BBC News. (2021). Malaysians in Covid lockdown fly white flags to ask for help. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-57717214

Chien, J. (2019). Validating the quality of crowdsourced data for flood modeling of Hurricane Harvey in Houston, Texas. https://digital.library.txst.edu/items/133a9af2-62bb-4579-9691-1c7a27635ef8

Dev Technosys. (2022, May 27). Navigation App like Waze | GPS Tracking App Development. Dev Technosys. https://devtechnosys.com/app-of-the-week/waze-app.php

Energy, E. C. (2023, November 1). Crisis Communication Planning A Key Element of Disaster Recovery. Utilities One. https://utilitiesone.com/crisis-communication-planning-a-key-element-of-disaster-recovery

Hanine, S., & Steils, N. (2018). Crowdsourcing: A Double-Edged Sword Outsourcing Strategy. In InTech eBooks. https://doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.74531

Hargrave, M. (2022). Crowdsourcing: Definition, how it works, types, and examples. Investopedia. https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/crowdsourcing.asp

Hunt, A. R., & Specht, D. (2019). Crowdsourced mapping in crisis zones: collaboration, organisation and impact. Journal of International Humanitarian Action, 4(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41018-018-0048-1

Jewett, L., Mah, S. M., Howell, N. A., & Larsen, M. M. (2021). Social Cohesion and Community Resilience During COVID-19 and Pandemics: A Rapid Scoping Review to inform the United Nations Research Roadmap for COVID-19 Recovery. International Journal of Health Services, 51(3), 325–336. https://doi.org/10.1177/0020731421997092

Pohling, R., Bzdok, D., Eigenstetter, M., Stumpf, S., & Strobel, A. (2015b). What is Ethical Competence? The Role of Empathy, Personal Values, and the Five-Factor Model of Personality in Ethical Decision-Making. Journal of Business Ethics, 137(3), 449–474. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-015-2569-5

Yang, Y., Zhang, C., Fan, C., Yao, W., Huang, R., & Mostafavi, A. (2019). Exploring the emergence of influential users on social media during natural disasters. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction, 38, 101204. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijdrr.2019.101204

[kngshuen]

Is Social Media Useful in Spreading Information on COVID-19 in Malaysia?

In the current digital era, social media has become an integral part of our lives, connecting us to our family, friends, and the world. In addition to sharing photos, social media has played a significant role in disseminating information about crucial issues, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Let's explore how social media helps spread virus-related information and its impact on digital communities.

The Power of Social Media for COVID-19 Information

1. Rapid Dissemination of Information

During the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, the increased social media activity in Malaysia played a crucial role. Malaysians were well-connected digitally, as they spent an average of 2 hours and 47 minutes daily on social media, surpassing the global average by a significant margin. This participation was primarily motivated by the need to obtain information (76.2%) and keep up with news and events (65.8%). Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp were the primary sources for vital updates, news, and recommendations. This ongoing flow of information helps increase the awareness and preparedness of the digital community (Howe, 2023).

2. Real-time Updates

The Malaysian government provided up-to-date COVID-19 information via e-government and social media. They relied on channels such as the Ministry of Health's Official Portal, specialised Facebook pages (such as CRPC and KKM), and the CPRC KKM channel on Telegram. The Director-General of Health's daily press briefings are not only broadcast live on television but also live online via Facebook. In April 2020, they released the MySejahtera mobile app to assist users in monitoring their health and reporting check-in locations, allowing for prompt responses to control the spread of the virus (Dawi et al., 2021).

3. Community Support

During these difficult times, social media has been essential in helping Malaysians feel more connected to one another, with many Facebook groups and online communities offering information and support. For example, neighbours used platforms such as Nextdoor to offer assistance to those in need, and digital communities united in unprecedented ways to share resources and aid one another (FMT Media Sdn Bhd, 2020). Moreover,  #benderaputih groups were formed on Facebook to share addresses for assistance and information on local food banks, with Malaysians in need flying white flags outside their residences to indicate distress. The digital community, including neighbours, personalities, and businesses, responded by donating food and other necessities, demonstrating the power of social media to bring communities together in times of crisis (BBC News, 2021).

4. Countering Misinformation

By actively utilizing social media, the Malaysian Ministry of Health (KKM) has taken significant measures to combat COVID-19 misinformation. Through their official social media channels, KKM provides accurate and up-to-date information, dispels misconceptions, and addresses concerns, ensuring that the public receives trustworthy information and is better equipped to make informed decisions during the pandemic. In addition, KKM has released information about the repercussions of disseminating false information. This proactive approach not only helps counter Misinformation but also fosters a sense of trust in official sources, which is crucial during a public health crisis (Euronews, 2020).

The Dark Side of Social Media in COVID-19 Information Spread

1. Misinformation and Rumors

In Malaysia, as in many other countries, social media has served as a breeding ground for Misinformation and rumors about COVID-19. Facebook and WhatsApp have been used to spread false information about the virus's origins, prevention, and treatment options. This has led to public confusion and, in some cases, hazardous behavior, such as disregarding medical advice. False information can undermine the efforts of health authorities and exacerbate the pandemic's effects, causing unnecessary alarm (Balakrishnan et al., 2021).

2. Amplification of Fear

Despite its many advantages, social media can be a double-edged instrument, particularly during a crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. One of its negative characteristics is its potential to amplify fear and anxiety. Sensationalized headlines and the dissemination of misleading images can elicit strong emotions, resulting in increased stress and negative effects on mental health. The internet has been rife with misleading information about the virus, including conspiracy theories and misleading statistics. There have been instances where images fraudulently purporting to depict the coronavirus under a microscope have caused panic and confusion. Such false information can be extensively disseminated on social media platforms like Facebook, inciting panic and undermining accurate comprehension (Euronews, 2020).

Conclusion

In conclusion, social media has proven to be a powerful tool in spreading information about COVID-19 in Malaysia. During the pandemic, it rapidly disseminated vital information and connected people, nurturing community and support. The government's use of social media channels contributed to disseminating timely information to the public. However, this has a negative aspect: disseminating false information and terror. Misinformation and sensationalized content have led to public perplexity and hysteria. To maximize the benefits of social media, we must use it responsibly and ensure that accurate information prevails, particularly during the pandemic. Connecting and informing us, social media can be a force for good, but it is up to each of us to ensure that it serves our best interests.

What's your opinion on the role of social media in spreading COVID-19 information in Malaysia? Share your thoughts and vote below.

What do you think? Do you think social media is useful in spreading information on Covid-19 in Malaysia?

Yes

No

Not sure

Voting ended onNov 6, 2023

Reference list

Balakrishnan, V., Ng, K. S., & Rahim, H. A. (2021). To share or not to share – The underlying motives of sharing fake news amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia. Technology in Society, 66, 101676. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.techsoc.2021.101676

BBC News. (2021). Malaysians in Covid lockdown fly white flags to ask for help. BBC News. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-57717214

Dawi, N. M., Namazi, H., Hwang, H. J., Ismail, S., Marešová, P., & Krejcar, O. (2021). Attitude toward protective behavior engagement during COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia: the role of e-government and social media. Frontiers in Public Health, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2021.609716

Euronews. (2020, January 30). Coronavirus: Malaysia arrests five for spreading misinformation online | #TheCube. Euronews. https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2020/01/29/coronavirus-malaysia-arrests-five-for-spreading-misinformation-online-thecube

FMT Media Sdn Bhd. (2020). Nextdoor: Free network connecting neighbours in quarantine. Freemalaysiatoday. https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/leisure/2020/03/29/nextdoor-free-network-connecting-neighbours-in-quarantine/

Howe, S. (2023). Social Media statistics for Malaysia [Updated 2023]. Meltwater. https://www.meltwater.com/en/blog/social-media-statistics-malaysia

[kngshuen]

"Is blogging still relevant in the age of TikTok and Instagram?"

In the era of TikTok and Instagram, where quick-scrolling through endless streams of content has become a daily ritual, the role of blogging might seem like a relic from a bygone digital age. However, as we explore the dynamics of longevity, flexibility, monetization, search engine visibility, and content control, we uncover that blogging still holds its own unique relevance in the vast landscape of digital content creation. Before diving into the reasons why blogging continues to stand strong in the age of TikTok and Instagram.

Let's talk about "What is blogging?".

Now let's dive into the reasons why blogging remains relevant in the era of TikTok and Instagram.

"Longevity of Content"

TikTok and Instagram: Social media posts, such as those on Instagram and TikTok, typically reach their zenith within a few hours or minutes and then rapidly vanish from memory (McCoy 2021).

Blog: In contrast, blog content can persist for more than two years, with distinct phases of impact: 50% in the first week, 22% in the first month, and an essential 28% between days 30 and 700. This striking contrast demonstrates the enduring influence of blogs in the digital landscape (McCoy 2021).

"Flexibility in Content"

Blog: Bloggers have complete content control. They can edit, delete, or update their posts as needed, ensuring accuracy and relevance over time (Pepper 2022).

TikTok and Instagram: In contrast, Instagram users face restrictions; they cannot add new photos to published posts, and on TikTok, once a post is published, revising becomes impossible, which could cause problems in cases of content mistakes or changes (Najmeh 2023).

"How to Earn Money Through Blogging, TikTok, and Instagram?"

TikTok: To earn money on TikTok, users must be at least 18 years old, have at least 10,000 followers, and have accumulated at least 100,000 video views in the past 30 days. For TikTok Pulse, a user requires at least 100,000 followers (Perelli & McAlone 2023).

Blog: Depending on their niche and audience size, bloggers can earn between $0 to over $500,000 monthly from their blogs. Affiliate marketing, displaying advertisements, selling digital products, and offering niche-specific courses are all viable revenue streams. Sponsored posts are drawn to high-traffic blogs (Baker 2023).

Instagram: Instagram influencers can earn anywhere from $0 to over $500,000 per month, depending on audience engagement and follower count. Their income typically comes from sponsored postings, the sale of digital products such as eBooks and videos, affiliate marketing, and the provision of Instagram-based courses. Gaining followers is essential to their income because having a large number of followers will lead to great income (Baker 2023).

"SEO and Discoverability"

Blog: Blogging plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of SEO by establishing your website as a valuable resource for answering consumers' questions. Employing various on-page SEO techniques within blog posts increases your site's chances of ranking higher in search engines, thereby increasing its appeal to site visitors (Coleman 2022).

TikTok and Instagram: On the contrary, TikTok and Instagram extensively rely on hashtags for SEO. Using hashtags strategically lets you optimize your content for TikTok and Instagram search engines. Different groups of users on the platform follow particular hashtags based on their interests and goals, making them a crucial component of TikTok and Instagram SEO strategies (Rose 2023).

"Content Control"

Blog: One significant difference between blogging and TikTok and Instagram is the level of control creators have over their content. Bloggers have total control over their content and may edit, remove, or update their postings whenever they want to ensure accuracy and relevancy (Onpassive 2023).

TikTok and Instagram: In contrast, users of TikTok and Instagram adhere to the terms of service of the respective platforms, which may restrict their control over content. The rules and regulations for content sharing and participation are set out in these terms of service, which may limit individuals' control over their own postings. The difference in control between TikTok and Instagram users and bloggers emphasizes bloggers' freedom and flexibility in controlling their content (Onpassive 2023).

So, is blogging still relevant in the age of TikTok and Instagram? Absolutely. While TikTok and Instagram provide immediate gratification and visual allure, blogging provides depth, endurance, control, and various monetization opportunities. It is a medium where ideas can flourish, stories can be told, and information can be shared engagingly and educationally. In a world that desires instant gratification, blogging remains an immutable art form, a platform for those who seek to delve deeper and savour the journey rather than the destination alone. Whether for personal expression, commerce, or education, blogging continues to carve out a distinct niche in the digital landscape.

What do you think? Do you think blog is still relevant in the age of TikToks and Instagram? Feel free to vote and share your comments below.

So, Do You Think Blogging is Still Relevant in the Age of TikTok and Instagram?

Yes

No

Voting ended onOct 6, 2023

Reference List

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McCoy, J 2021, “How Long Does Your Content Last? A Data-Driven Look (& Why Blogging Dominates!”, viewed 27 September 2023, < https://contenthacker.com/lifespan-of-content/>.

Najmeh 2023, “TikTok Vs. Instagram: Key Differences & Important Factors In 2023”, viewed 27 September 2023, <https://blog.ainfluencer.com/tiktok-vs-instagram/>.

Onpassive 2023, “What is the difference between Blogging and Social Media?”, viewed 27 September 2023, <https://onpassive.com/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-blogging-and-social-media/>.

Pepper, T 2022, “How to Edit Blogs: 7 Tips For Every Marketer”, viewed 27 September 2023, < https://www.peppercontent.io/blog/how-to-edit-blogs/>.

Perelli, A & McAlone, N 2023, “How influencers get paid and make money on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube”, viewed 27 September 2023, <https://www.businessinsider.com/how-much-influencers-get-paid-on-instagram-tiktok-youtube>.

Rose, C 2023, “EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TIKTOK SEO”, viewed 28 September 2023, <https://riseatseven.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-tiktok-seo/>.