Silaturrahim' is a concept of kinship that is unique to the Malays, regardless of where they are in this world. It is a tradition that involves physical actions, and the development in communication has enabled for this to be translated as part of online communication. Using the qualitative approach, through the combination of focus group discussions and in-depth interviews, involving respondents from a wide range of background, this study was carried out to identify the elements of 'silaturrahim' that can be found in social media engagement amongst the diaspora community with a focus on Malaysians who are residing abroad -through the way they communicate with their family members and friends back home, and those who are residing in the same country that they are in, as well as with other Malaysian diaspora communities. The study is focused on the way the Malay diaspora continues the tradition of 'silaturrahim' while forming a positive online culture. The research begins with the diaspora providing their insights on the primary purpose of using social media. As a preliminary finding, in general, most of the interviewees agreed that social media is a means to bring the diaspora community together, particularly if there are events taking place near them, especially when their traditional food is served in the events. The social media is also seen as the most convenient way of conveying information amongst them, and sharing of news both from home as well as where they are residing.

WhatsApp has become a major necessity in modern communication both individually and as a group. During an unprecedented time like COVID-19 pandemic, it increased the utilization of social media among society and has developed new norms among its users, especially grandparents. This study emphasises the various real-life activities undertaken by grandparents in social media and detailed research regarding the various WhatsApp administrators in a group chat. A qualitative research approach consisting of in-depth interviews have been carried out among family members in order to gather all the information-involving informants. In addition, it aims to gain a broader perspective of the informants' view regarding their grandparents becoming the administrator of a family WhatsApp group. Results of this study revealed that family relationships became strengthened between grandparents and other family members, especially with their grandchildren. Secondly, grandparents started being obsessed with WhatsApp, they are keen to learn more and are even able to keep up with the latest technology. Finally, the topics discussed in the family WhatsApp group covers current issues such as politics, religious advice, and sometimes entertainment. Generally, this study is expected to contribute to the communication studies and social media field, specifically understanding the use of social media between two different generations that are keen to keep up to date with the current technology especially during the unprecedented time. Keywords: WhatsApp, grandparents, pandemic, new norms, social media.