A ‘Blue Ocean’ for marginalised radical voices: cyberspace, social media and extremist discourse in Malaysia

Muhammad Uthman El-Muhammady, Ahmad El-Muhammady (2023) A ‘Blue Ocean’ for marginalised radical voices: cyberspace, social media and extremist discourse in Malaysia. In: New Media in the Margins: Lived Realities and Experiences from the Malaysian Peripheries. Palgrave Macmillan, Singapore, pp. 163-192. ISBN 978-981-19-7140-2

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Abstract

This article explores how cyberspace and social media are being used as instruments for the growth of extremist discourse in Malaysia—83% of militant detainees charged under anti-terrorism laws relied on social media platforms to access materials and establish virtual networking with likeminded individuals. The internet also provides a conducive environment for the incubation and growth of extremist discourse, where cyberspace and social media serve as vehicles of propaganda and recruitment—these have been major foci of research by academia and law enforcement alike. This article explores the issue from three angles: (1) the interplay between radicalisation and extremist discourse, particularly violent extremism; (2) the linkages between social media and cyberspace with democracy and postmodern discourse; and (3) the online manifestation of violent extremist groups, thus highlighting three growing threats based on religious, political and health-oriented radicalisation. This article suggests that three factors contribute to the growth of such extremist discourse and “marginalised voices”: (1) a democratic setting and postmodern discourse offer a conducive ecosystem and environment; (2) the use of “democratic rights” narratives to promote extremist discourse, particularly on certain platforms; and (3) the use of extremist discourse as counterpoint and alternative to dominant discourse and culture in mainstream media.

Item Type:	Book Chapter
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Social media Cyberspace Radicalisation Rehabilitation Postmodern discourse (Counter)terrorism
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General) > H61.8 Communication of information J Political Science > JA Political science (General) P Language and Literature > PR English literature
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC)
Depositing User:	Dr. Ahmad El-Muhammady
Date Deposited:	20 Feb 2023 14:07
Last Modified:	05 Mar 2024 16:38
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/103719

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