(Lecture Cikgu Zul and student Nureen Najwa Binti Abdul Halim from ISMP SAINS sem 2)
TANJONG MALIM–Vox pop interviews, which capture the opinions of everyday people, are often used to understand how the public reacts to current issues. In a recent discussion with a student and a lecturer, both shared their thoughts on how vox pop reflects public understanding of fake news in Malaysia. The conversation focused on recent viral claims about diesel shortages and rumours that Malaysian diesel was being sent to the Philippines.
The student viewed vox pop as a useful way to see how people respond to trending topics. From their perspective, many individuals tend to believe and share information quickly, especially when it is widely circulated on social media. In the case of the diesel rumours, the student observed that people often reacted emotionally without checking whether the information was accurate. This shows how easily misinformation can spread, particularly among younger audiences who rely heavily on platforms like TikTok and X for news.
On the other hand, the lecturer offered a more critical view of the situation. He pointed out that the spread of fake news is not only the public’s responsibility but also the responsibility of authorities. According to him, government agencies should play a stronger role in guiding people towards verified and reliable information. He expressed concern that without proper guidance, the public may become confused or misled, even describing the situation as people being “ignored to another planet.”
The lecturer also emphasised the need for stricter rules to control the spread of false information. He believes that stronger enforcement and clearer regulations are necessary to prevent individuals from creating and sharing fake news. By taking more action, authorities can help reduce misinformation and improve public trust in official sources.
Overall, the discussion shows that vox pop interviews can highlight both awareness and misunderstanding among the public. While they provide insight into how people think and feel, they also reveal how easily false information can influence opinions. The student’s response reflects everyday behaviour, while the lecturer’s perspective focuses on the need for better systems and guidance.
In conclusion, fake news remains a major issue in Malaysia, especially when it spreads quickly through social media. Vox pop interviews help expose these challenges by showing real public reactions. However, addressing the problem requires both individuals to be more careful with the information they share and authorities to take a more active role in ensuring that accurate news reaches the public.