With over 97% of Malaysians online and spending an average of 8 hours a day on the Internet 1 ,
our nation has rapidly embraced virtual connection.
Two decades ago, the idea of navigating between physical and digital worlds seemed like a
scene from a science fiction film such as Doctor Strange, where heroes journey across realms to
complete their missions. Today, that very concept has become an everyday reality for
Malaysians who study, work, socialise, and even seek comfort online.
A generation growing up behind screens
For Malaysia’s young generation, who have grown up in an era of constant connectivity,
technology shapes almost every part of their lives as digital natives. According to the National
Youth Survey 2024, 91% of Malaysians aged 18 to 30 use at least one social media platform
such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook 2 , while communication apps such as WhatsApp have
largely replaced handwritten letters or phone calls. Educational institutions have followed suit,
embedding online learning systems into their curricula to modernise how students learn and
collaborate.
Yet, despite this connectivity, young Malaysians face an unprecedented paradox. Between 2019
and 2023, the national rate of teenage depression doubled. 3 The constant pressure to keep up
online has made “fear of missing out” (FOMO) and social comparison increasingly common.
Prolonged screen exposure can also reduce empathy and fuel online conflict.
Globally, experts warn of similar trends; whether with social media or artificial intelligence (AI)
tools, excessive reliance on digital interaction can blur emotional boundaries, isolating users
from real-world support systems. These are risks Malaysia cannot ignore, as cyberbullying,
scams, and misinformation continue to rise.
Emotional intelligence as a digital life skill
To help youths thrive in this evolving environment, emotional intelligence (EI) must be treated
as a core life skill, on par with digital literacy. EI, the ability to recognise, understand and
manage one’s emotions and empathise with others, equips individuals to stay grounded amid
digital noise.
Emotionally intelligent individuals enjoy healthier relationships, stronger mental well-being,
and greater career success. For youths, this means pausing before reacting to online provocations, setting healthy screen boundaries, and knowing when to step away from digital
spaces to rest and reflect.
In a world where a single post or click can have lasting consequences—from spending
impulsively to posting hurtful comments—those with strong EI are more likely to respond
thoughtfully instead of emotionally. They also protect their boundaries by communicating
calmly and balancing screen time with meaningful offline engagement.
Nurturing empathy in the digital age
Emotional intelligence also strengthens empathy. When youths learn to consider the real
person behind every screen, they are less likely to engage in cyberbullying or toxic exchanges.
Instead, they can use online spaces to build meaningful connections, foster constructive and
respectful conversations, share knowledge responsibly, and support one another.
Emotionally aware youths are also better equipped to recognise distress, both in themselves
and others. They effectively seek help from trusted friends, family, or professionals, rather than
turning to anonymous forums, AI chatbots or unverified sources for validation.
Malaysia’s call to action
To build a digitally resilient society, Malaysia must integrate EI training into homes, schools, and
workplaces. Parents can model empathy and emotional awareness through open
conversations, while educators can embed EI practices in classrooms through reflection
exercises, group collaboration, and community engagement. Organisations and policymakers
can further amplify these efforts through national mental well-being and cyber wellness
campaigns.
Ultimately, nurturing EI is more than an educational initiative, it is a shared responsibility. As
Malaysia moves deeper into the digital era, our goal should be to raise a generation that not
only excels in technology but also leads with empathy, intellect, and emotional depth.
This article is contributed by Jolene Chong Yen Yen, Lecturer at the School of General Studies & Languages, Faculty of Social Sciences and Leisure Management, Taylor’s University.
