MELAKA – Social media and artificial intelligence have transformed the way we think, speak and share, but that freedom comes with consequence.
A single post today can shape opinions or ignite outrage, reminding users that true digital responsibility starts not with the platform, but with the person behind the screen.
According to the Communication and Multimedia Content Forum (CMCF) chief executive officer (CEO) Mediha Mahmood, the core of digital safety begins not with platforms, but with personal accountability.
“If I were a panellist and suddenly started saying something offensive, would we blame the audience or the microphone? Of course not, because the first layer of control always comes from within.
“Whatever we post or share reflects who we are. The internet doesn’t delete our responsibility, it amplifies it,” she said during the ‘Surf’s Up: Deputies of Digital Literacy forum’ on Nov 1, held here recently.
She stressed that the same principle applies online. As a mother herself, Mediha said parents must also recognise their role in shaping their children’s online behaviour.
“Children don’t buy phones or pay for internet plans; we do. So when we hand over devices, we’re also handing them access to a world we can’t always control,” she added.
She reminded parents that online predators often hide behind games or chat rooms.
“If parental controls don’t work, don’t be afraid to take the device away. Protecting our children sometimes means being firm, not popular,” she said.
The forum reminded users that being “online with a purpose” means more than just posting and scrolling; it’s about being responsible, informed and aware of the ripple effect every click can cause.
Held at UTeM, it gathered students, digital professionals and educators to discuss how individuals can use technology more wisely, particularly amid rising cases of misinformation, digital addiction and online exploitation.
Hosted by digital creator and humanitarian Hazeman Huzir, the event featured Mediha, TikTok Malaysia Public Policy manager Aliff Zakaria, Aiszzy Electronics founder and content creator, Professional Technologist Aqilah Zainuddin and UTeM academician Dr Muhammad Noorazlan Shah from the Faculty of Artificial Intelligence and Cyber Security.
Using technology with purpose
Meanwhile, Noorazlan said digital literacy should be seen as a life skill, not just a classroom topic.
“We always remind our students that visibility comes with responsibility. When you post online, people will see you, but the question is, do they see you in a good or bad light?,” he said.
He shared how UTeM integrates technology into teaching by encouraging students to use AI tools or social media platforms like TikTok to present projects creatively.
“We want them to explore technology responsibly. These tools should enhance learning and professional growth, not be used just for entertainment or shortcuts,” he added.
He also reminded students that “the internet never forgets.”
“Every post, comment, or image leaves a trace. Once it’s out there, it’s permanent. That’s why we keep stressing the importance of using technology wisely,” he said.
Pause before you post
In the meantime, Aliff stated that education and awareness are key to safer online spaces.
“We’ve been talking a lot about community guidelines and regulations, but what many people don’t realise is that TikTok actually offers a wide range of safety features.
“For example, parents can make use of tools like Parental Controls and Family Pairing; these allow them to link their own accounts with their children’s, so they can monitor what their kids are watching every day,” he said.
He stated that TikTok’s “Think Twice” campaign was created to remind users to pause before creating or sharing any content.
“Just take five seconds to think. Ask yourself, is this true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? Once it’s online, it can spread further than you imagine,” he added.
Aliff also emphasised the link between online safety and mental health.
“We often talk about physical safety, but digital wellbeing matters just as much. We want users to feel safe expressing themselves, without fear of cyberbullying or burnout,” he said.
From engineer to educator
Aqilah said responsible content creation is about value, not virality.
“Before I post anything, I ask myself one simple question: will this benefit others?,” she said.
She recalled instances of viral misinformation online, including videos that looked believable but were actually false.
“Once, I saw a clip claiming a fan could spin using magnets alone. It looked real, but it was fake; there was a hidden battery. It’s a reminder that even creators need to double-check before posting,” she said.
When she makes a mistake, Aqilah believes in taking ownership.
“If I share something inaccurate, I’ll correct it and apologise. It’s part of being accountable. No one is perfect, but how you handle it matters,” she said.
Thinking twice, acting better
Participants at the forum also walked away with renewed awareness about online ethics.
Muhamad Syahrizal Ali, 26, an automotive executive, said the session was an eye-opener.
“The speakers reminded us that the internet has consequences. Many people post without thinking and end up facing legal or social backlash. It’s time to think twice before typing,” he said when met here.
For Ahmad Noor Shukry Selamat, 21, a UTeM student, the message hit closer to home.
“I use TikTok daily and I’ve seen content that’s just not appropriate. I worry for my younger siblings. The talk helped me realise that even if we don’t post, we still play a role in how information spreads,” he said.
One message stood above all: digital progress means little without digital purpose.
In a world powered by algorithms and AI, the forum served as a timely reminder that behind every post is a person and behind every click, a choice.
Technology may change, but responsibility never should.