The world is waking up to the reality that our digital lives are becoming increasingly addictive, and it's not just a matter of personal choice. According to experts, the design of our digital platforms is intentionally crafted to keep us hooked, with features like autoplay, infinite scrolling, and notifications playing a significant role. This raises a deeper question: Are we being manipulated by the very tools we use for connection and entertainment?
In a recent panel session at the International Regulatory Conference (IRC) 2026, Relate Malaysia founder Dr. Chua Sook Ning shed light on the issue of unhealthy digital use. She emphasized that it's not just about self-discipline; it's about the design of our digital environments. Dr. Chua stated, 'It starts to impact personal relationships. When I want to stop, I can’t.' This sentiment resonates with many who find themselves unable to disengage from their devices, even when they desire a break.
The concept of 'doomscrolling' is a prime example of this phenomenon. Content Forum Malaysia CEO Mediha Mahmood explained that it's not just the content we consume but the algorithms that drive us further into a spiral of similar material. She said, 'You don’t decide that you want to watch it, but after you watch one video, it just continues playing.' This endless cycle of content is a result of algorithmic design, which is a part of the business model, according to Dr. Chua.
The concern extends beyond individual behavior. Mediha Mahmood highlighted the need for regulators to examine algorithmic design, especially in cases where online systems might manipulate users or reinforce existing beliefs. She stated, 'We don’t want to completely dictate what the algorithms show us, but we should at least know whether the way they are being designed right now is harmful.' This call for regulation is not just about harmful content but also about the algorithms that amplify and expose users to certain material repeatedly.
The issue of digital dependency is not limited to young people, though they remain particularly vulnerable due to their lack of life experience in navigating digital spaces safely. Features like red notification badges, autoplay, and infinite scrolling are designed to keep users engaged for as long as possible, often without their conscious decision-making. This raises a deeper question: Are we being manipulated into spending more time on our devices?
The responsibility for addressing this issue is shared between users, platforms, and regulators. While platforms take responsibility for platform design, they cannot be held solely accountable for individual usage. As Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission managing director (development) Eneng Faridah Iskandar pointed out, the type of content, behavior, and whether it leads to addiction determine whether regulatory action is warranted. She mentioned measures introduced in Europe, such as voluntary social media curfews for minors, as examples of regulators examining the broader effects of digital dependency.
However, regulation alone has its limits. Eneng Faridah Iskandar emphasized that addressing excessive device use also depends on education, parental controls, and greater public awareness. She stated, 'There’s only so much that regulations can do.' The future of addressing this issue will depend on the identified harms and the direction of public policy, indicating a complex and multifaceted approach to managing our digital lives.
