The social reality of blogging and empowerment among Malaysian bloggers

Abstract

This is the accepted version of the paper.This version of the publication may differ from the final published version. Permanent repository link AbstractThe study focuses on the issue of empowerment among Malaysian bloggers. In Malaysia, there are issues that are considered taboo and are not discussed openly in the mainstream media. The rise of blogs in the earlier part of the 21st century has led to the discovery of a new avenue or platform of interaction. Malaysia is unique in the sense that it has its own interpretation of press freedom, a multicultural society and Islam as the official religion. Though there is a general awareness on "what is illegal offline, should be illegal online", there are those who have found new freedom in this new realm. The new world of blogosphere is considered as a haven for self experimentation, discourses and sharing of opinions where it allows individuals to express themselves openly with or without considering the legal, religious or even cultural restrictions. Some people have used the the new avenue positively and found empowerment which they would never have found if the blog had never existed. While some individuals may take advantage of this new platform for malicious activities. Forty Malaysian bloggers were interviewed during the course of this study where they share their personal blogging experiences and how blogging has brought about changes to their lives.