Xiaxue, cyberbullies and the political satire
Xiaxue has been making news lately, yet again. This time, I feel for a good reason.
Based on the many reports and public opinion formed about this episode, it seems that she has emerged as the 'hero' to fight against cyberbullying and yet again, this has strengthened her icon as the no.1 most influential blogger in Singapore.
Like it or not, she has the tenacity to make news, to be vocal and to make a stand.
As much as there are haters of the Xiaxue Brand, this very controversial brand is creating waves and setting the media agenda, which of late is about irresponsible shaming on the online sphere.
Today, she made news once again by appearing on Newsradio 938 which discussed the topic on cyberbullying and whether her act of retaliation will pave more reasons for a code of conduct online or more self censorship within the internet communities. Many callers opined that what Xiaxue did was correct and we should put a stop to all these nonsense. While some questioned her intention and whether it was a publicity stunt.
I totally salute Xiaxue for what she did and even her courage to step up. Knowing Xiaxue ( in the online context), I think it is not surprising of her to do such things.
As much as I feel she did the right thing, standing up for herself and for women of cyber abuse, there are a few intricate and touchy issues relating to this case, in my opinion.
The role of Temasek Review
The photos of Xiaxue and her counterparts were disseminated by Temasek review fanpage currently liked by some 54,627 fans. Based on their description, TR is a review of Singapore's current affairs from an unique, interesting and sexy perspective. Based on my understanding of this media, the articles and updates have been thought provoking and at the forefront of public opinion.
Temasek review also played a significant role in swaying public opinion during the last general election and the Hougang by-election. The pro-right group is filled with netizens who are liberate and perhaps cynical towards government policies and initiatives. People who are in this fanpage are perhaps more vocal, liberal and always ready for a change.
Hence, it is not surprising when photos are posted on Temasek Review's fanpage, fans started to fire their guns at her, some of which are emotional and illogical. The 'climate' within the fanpage breed and cultivated such group behavior as one behavior purports more of such behavior to become mainstream and 'permissable' within the page.
Heat during General Election and Xiaxue's 'political alliance'
The photos and posts of Xiaxue during the GE period could have been construed as her endorsement for a certain political party. While Xiaxue categorically said that she had no intention to showcase her political affiliation, her posts were perhaps construed as an endorsement, and a weak attempt to sway votes during the GE.
The General Election in 2012 was one of the most heated and watched GE in Singapore's history. Many people were also surprised by the role of social media and the extent of political engagement amongst citizens this time round. People were openly slamming PAP candidates, their speeches and campaign slogans. Rational, level headed people are for once charged up emotionally as the competition became more and more intense. The mood during the GE came to a high point of drama, sensation and satire.
It is therefore of no surprise that netizens used crass and crude remarks on Xiaxue, especially when Xiaxue took the opportunity, during GE to 'campaign' for the dominant party. Of course, it doesn't give them the right to slam people, but my point is that the GE mood had emerged to a high point of dramatisation and satire, a point where it is harder to act rationally.
The notion of a public figure
We all know Xiaxue is an influential blogger in Singapore. The fact is that her blog is getting 40,000 views daily. Mind you, and that is an extremely high number. Public figures like celebrities and politicians are subjected to constant and continuous scrutiny. Netizens and online commentators are free to comment anything about them. While it is not fair to say that Xiaxue should sit there and let the bullets hit on her, Xiaxue should understand that to a certain extent, these are tradeoffs of being popular, famous or known to the public. You lose a little bit of privacy, a little bit of pride but what you get is the title of a 'celebrity' or even opinion leader for that matter. The status and perks you get as a public figure is enormous, think endorsements, deals, invites and the intangibles, etc.
Self Censorship or code of conduct?
This episode opens up a public discussion and debate about cyberbullying and being responsible online. I like the guts of Xiaxue for daring to do so, and opening up new frontiers and guidelines in the cyberspace. However, the last thing i want is to see government intervention, and to say, oh ' The government thinks that we should impose a code of conduct for social media and internet and all netizens should abide by it'.
The internet is about freedom of speech and expression and this universal right should be presevered strongly. The cyberbullies should weigh their views and to learn to be reasonable netizens especially when commenting on current affairs and political matters. Bloggers, opinion leaders or public figures should also understand their important role and influence they might have to the society or larger community.
I salute Xiaxue once again for her ability to make news, and for a good reason this time. She has my vote as someone who is able to stand up for herself, and to lobby for her own rights.
I do think we should let this matter rest soon, and to perhaps educate and remind everyone to exercise self-censorship and to give fair statements especially when we comment on social networking sites. If we are able to do that, this world will be more peaceful, lovely and safe, at least in the online sphere.
Dennis Toh
