Business · Malaysia Bureau
Social media emerges as primary news source for Malaysians
Nearly seven in ten Malaysians now rely on social media platforms for news consumption, according to a major media trends report. The finding underscores a significant shift in how the nation's population accesses information.
LSN Malaysia ·
Social media has solidified its position as the dominant news source for Malaysian audiences, with 69% of respondents indicating they obtain news from such platforms, according to data from the Reuters Institute.
The figure marks a considerable lead over traditional and digital alternatives. Just 42% of Malaysians use dedicated news websites to access current affairs, while television viewership for news stands at 36%, the report found.
The trend reflects broader patterns of media consumption across the region, where mobile-first populations increasingly turn to social platforms for information. These channels offer convenience and immediate access to breaking news, though media literacy experts have raised concerns about the spread of misinformation on such platforms.
The reliance on social media for news has implications for Malaysian media organisations, which must adapt their distribution strategies to reach audiences where they spend their time. Publishers are increasingly tailoring content for platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and WhatsApp to maintain audience engagement.
The shift also underscores the importance of digital literacy initiatives as Malaysians navigate an increasingly complex information landscape shaped by algorithm-driven content discovery and peer-to-peer news sharing.