I write this letter with an urgent plea – not just to share concerns but to advocate for dedicated attention to a pressing issue. Our society is undergoing rapid transformation, and it is crucial that we engage in meaningful conversations about the changes we need to make.
The COVID-19 era has left lasting effects, shaping behaviours that now require re-examination – particularly in social media use. Many habits formed during that time, including harassment, defamation and inappropriate online conduct, have now crossed legal and ethical boundaries. The rise of TikTok in Brunei has only amplified these issues, with individuals engaging in reckless and harmful behaviour for online validation.
Despite repeated Friday sermons emphasising respect and accountability, these warnings have largely been ignored.
Sermons alone are insufficient; there must be visible consequences for those who break the law. Authorities must take stronger action to address social media misconduct, demonstrating that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
Online harassment and defamation have real-world consequences – damaging careers, businesses and lives. Yet, these offences are often dismissed as less serious than other crimes. In 2025, we must demand stronger enforcement of existing laws and hold offenders accountable.
Furthermore, businesses and educational institutions must include social media policies in contracts to prevent misconduct. Irresponsible behaviour online should not go unchecked, as it affects individuals and society as a whole.
The social media landscape has become a platform for troubling behaviours, including:
Exploiting mental instability – Some individuals rebrand themselves under the guise of personal growth while continuing harmful behaviours.
Hypocrisy and narcissism – Self-proclaimed moral authorities engage in the very misconduct they condemn.
Vigilantism and harassment – Users justify threats and bullying, even under fake identities.
Attention-seeking at others’ expense – Livestreams incite viewers to attack individuals without regard for consequences.
Exploiting victimhood – Some defame others online for content creation, worsening mental health crises.
Irresponsible online sales – Unauthorised businesses bypass health and religious safety regulations.
Unfounded attacks on businesses – Influencers damage reputations with baseless claims.
Underage social media use – Children create accounts using false information, exposing themselves to risks they don’t fully understand.
Stronger regulations, enforcement and education are needed to combat these issues. Public awareness campaigns should emphasise social media responsibility, targeting both youth and adults.
We must also reconsider the role of platforms like TikTok in our society, taking steps to mitigate their negative influence – especially on young minds.
One of the most concerning effects of social media is its impact on children’s cognitive development.
The pursuit of online validation is replacing critical thinking and intellectual growth, leading to a generation more focused on attention-seeking than learning.
We cannot ignore the harm caused by social media misuse. Now is the time for collective action to create a more safe and respectful digital environment.
Let’s work together to protect our society and future generations from the damaging effects of irresponsible online behaviour.
Concerned citizen
