Silaturahim in the age of social media : the impact of social media on traditional bonds among Malaysians diaspora living in the United Kingdom

This study investigates Silaturahim in the age of social media. It explores the impact of social media use on traditional bonds among the Malaysian diaspora who live abroad, specifically in the United Kingdom. Silaturahim is defined as a deep social relationship among family and acquaintances that is deeply ingrained in the value system of Malaysian society. In the context of the increasingly sophisticated development and widespread use of social media, this study explores how Silaturahim remains a significant factor for social cohesion. The researcher conducted focus group discussions (FGD) and in-depth interviews with members of the Malaysian diaspora in the United Kingdom. Based on purposive and snowball sampling, focus group discussions included regular social media users, while in-depth interviews addressed community leaders as well as other experts and stakeholders in Malaysian communities in the UK. Research objective RO1 aims to determine the kinds of Silaturahim activities that are practised by the Malaysian diaspora. RO2 intends to identify the young generation's understanding of Silaturahim, while RO3 explores how the young generation uses social media to maintain Silaturahim. RO4 attempts to identify types of online communication that change the way Malaysian diaspora communicate with family and friends, whereas RO5 identifies the role of the Malaysian diaspora in maintaining the Silaturahim through social media. Key findings of this study include: (RO1), social media cannot replace but, in some cases, support and enhance physical activities that remain at the centre of Silaturahim. Secondly (RO2), even though many young generations have become diaspora, they still understand and practise the Silaturahim concept, which has been passed down from generation to generation. Thirdly, (RO3), young generations use social media connections with their social circle and are able to strengthen Silaturahim accordingly. Whereas (RO4), the cultural value of Silaturahim through social media communication is still being practised for socialising to maintain the good value as it has been viewed from religious perspectives. (RO5) diaspora communities demonstrate the ability to carry out Silaturahim activities despite long physical distances through the integration of social media. The study highlights the complementary potential of traditional bonds and activities, on the one hand, and social media communication, on the other. Social media becomes a platform to connect with society and to strengthen Silaturahim by initiating traditional activities and increasing knowledge about them. It re-interprets and advances Silaturahim in the era of digital media.