Looking into Issues in Publication & Design: Online Media and Its Impact

Society is dependant on it since the birth of the Internet. With the existence of the Internet comes the emergence of online media. Online media has affected the nation in every way possible. Why people are not able to rely on mainstream media is to why more people choose to read and go for online media. Based on this year recent general elections, the impacts and effects of online media in the Malaysian political scene can be seen unmistakably. One of the effects is the rise in circulation and readership of online media. Secondly, online media creates the potential to public articulation especially in terms of politics. The public is now able to voice out opinions and views. They can choose who they want to be in the government. Thirdly, the low cost of publishing a piece online will make it easier for people to participate in the political world. The usage of online media will bring about an impact to society especially the younger generations, for it is them who are outspoken and can be brutally honest when it comes to the truth about the politics in Malaysia.

"The role of alternative media in providing critical and dissenting coverage remains vital if Malaysians are to have access to a wide range of viewpoints. Despite such hardships, inflicted by the government, online media must continue to exploit the potential of the internet in disseminating information and facilitating debate" (Ling, 2003 pg299).

The internet indisputably is the most powerful tool in this era. Its influence on humans is extensive and ever-changing.