The Dark Side of Social Media Fame
The Allure of Easy Success
In today’s digital age, it’s easier and faster to spread knowledge than ever before. Given its easy accessibility, social media, in particular, has had a bigger impact on the masses than previous forms of entertainment.
This has driven content creators to go to great lengths to make their material entertaining, and it also brings financial rewards from platforms such as TikTok and YouTube. While social media offers income for successful creators, it has also promoted the idea of an easy lifestyle, fuelled by the glamorous images influencers often share. Some even suggest that education isn’t necessary for financial success, which has caught the attention of young audiences.
The Consequences
Unfortunately, this message has led some children to lose interest in their studies. More than 10,000 students, for example, skipped their SPM exams, choosing instead to pursue content creation. Additionally, 80,000 students dropped out of school, which raises concerns about the future for these young people. While the numbers may not seem overwhelming, they reflect a growing trend. Many young people believe content creation will make them wealthy, without being aware of the effort it takes to succeed in the long run.
The High Price of Fame
Beyond producing great material, creators must remain relevant while avoiding behaviors that could lead to social exclusion. For young minds, this can be extremely challenging and stressful. It is, therefore, crucial for parents and adults to help children understand the value of education and make learning engaging for them. Children need to first discover their passions, and teachers should adapt their teaching methods to suit these interests.
With Great Influence Comes Great Responsibility
Becoming a content creator is a career like any other, with its own set of demands. There is also an increasing need for creators to make content that benefits audiences.
Real-World Examples
Take, for example, Reina Lum, a creator on Instagram and TikTok who shares news and explains legal matters related to current events, using her background as a lawyer. Her legal knowledge allows her to present well-founded arguments, which offer valuable information to viewers. Similarly, Auri Katarina produces videos about cleaning the homes of individuals struggling with mental health issues. Her content not only sheds light on these challenges but also teaches practical cleaning methods.
Conclusion
Content creation and consumption are now part of daily life, but it’s important to recognize that making social media a reliable source of income requires effort and persistence. As with other jobs, not everyone will find long-term success. The ability to influence others also comes with responsibility. For instance, after winning "Creator of the Year" at the TikTok Awards 2023, Khairul Aming took the opportunity to remind young people to focus on their studies and work towards a better Malaysia.
FAQs
Q: What is the impact of social media on young people?
A: Social media has a significant impact on young people, promoting the idea of an easy lifestyle and suggesting that education isn’t necessary for financial success.
Q: What is the result of this perceived easy success?
A: The result is that some children are losing interest in their studies, leading to a growing trend of students skipping their SPM exams or dropping out of school.
Q: What is the importance of education in today’s society?
A: Education is essential for roles such as mechanics, chefs, artists, and even influencers, not just traditionally high-regarded careers in medicine, law, or engineering.