2-12-2023 (SINGAPORE) In recent weeks, netizens in certain Southeast Asian countries have launched digital offensives against Israelis and expressed varying views on the responses of different governments to the prolonged Israel-Hamas conflict. Notably, in Indonesia and Malaysia, online attacks and cyberbullying targeted soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). Netizens engaged in spamming their social media accounts with calls, comments, and messages, aiming to demoralize them.
Given domestic laws preventing physical protests on the Israel-Hamas war, Singaporeans have predominantly voiced their opinions online. The Singapore Police Force announced on October 18 that events and public assemblies related to the conflict would not be allowed due to heightened tensions, citing public safety and security concerns.
Online reactions within the region have sparked criticisms of the Singapore government’s approach, with some netizens expressing disapproval of what they perceive as apathy from certain groups in Singapore towards the conflict.
Indonesia and Malaysia: Online Activism and Disinformation Attacks
An Indonesian movement named #JulidFiSabilillah has emerged as a prominent force in the online campaign against Israelis. The movement, which translates to “Speaking Critically in the Way of God,” has resorted to doxxing and cyberbullying IDF members and individuals perceived as Zionists. The term “julid” in Indonesian slang means gossiping or speaking critically.
Social media handles and WhatsApp numbers of Israeli soldiers were reportedly disseminated online, enabling Indonesians and Malaysians to inundate these accounts with comments, messages, and calls. Some soldiers have closed their Instagram comment sections, while others have lost their accounts.
The movement’s founder, using the pen name Erlangga Greschinov, initiated the campaign after witnessing Israeli soldiers celebrating in Gaza. The objective is to challenge the Israeli media and soldiers’ narratives that portray Palestinians negatively. Strategies employed by the movement include gaining the trust of Israeli soldiers to obtain personal information and spreading disinformation to sow discord among Israelis.
While some Malaysians have joined the movement, the primary focus remains on mobilizing and coordinating Indonesian netizens. Erlangga stated that he welcomes participants from other countries but acknowledged the language barrier as announcements are in Indonesian.
Despite potential legal concerns, Erlangga asserted that Indonesia’s lack of diplomatic relations with Israel provides a shield. He welcomed any Israelis feeling threatened to initiate legal proceedings within Indonesia.
Dr Joanne Lim, a professor in Communications, Media, and Cultural Studies at the University of Nottingham in Malaysia, views this form of activism as a manifestation of “connective responsibility.” Netizens engage in online campaigns as a means of expressing social responsibility and calling for an end to atrocities in Gaza. However, she suggests that other forms of activism might be more effective in addressing the conflict’s human toll.
Malaysia: Online Attacks Against Israel Supporters
While Malaysia lacks a coordinated movement like Indonesia’s, Malaysian netizens have actively attacked users supporting Israel. Individuals expressing pro-Israel sentiments on social media have become targets of online backlash. Users such as @mechanics_watch, who openly declared standing unequivocally with Israel, faced significant attention and responses from thousands of netizens.
Some Malaysians have gone further, threatening to uncover the real identities of individuals supporting Israel. Local police and government officials have been tagged in posts to draw attention to these individuals.
Fair Criticisms in Singapore-Related Discourse: Analyst Perspectives
In Singapore, Dr Mathew Mathews, head of the Institute of Policy Studies’ social lab, notes that while many Singaporeans may empathize with the events of the past two months, caution prevails in vocal engagements on such sensitive issues. Recognizing the potential for contentious debates, Singaporeans value harmony and strive to avoid causing friction within the society.
Dr Mathews highlighted that Singaporeans have been actively contributing to humanitarian aid for victims of the Israel-Hamas conflict. The government has sent humanitarian aid to Gaza twice, and Singaporeans have donated over S$7 million in cash and in-kind donations to support relief efforts.
Dr Syed Farid Alatas, a professor of sociology at the National University of Singapore, emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between fair and unfair criticisms in online discourses. While fair criticisms of Singapore’s position on a two-state solution are acknowledged, irrational attacks based on perceived pro-Israel or pro-West sentiments are unwarranted.
Singapore’s Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam recently noted a noticeable increase in anti-Singapore sentiment across the region on social media. Criticisms branding Singapore as pro-Israel or pro-West have circulated, reflecting the challenges of navigating international conflicts within the context of national identity.
Dr Alatas suggests that engaging in discussions about the Israel-Hamas war is crucial for Singaporeans. While humanitarian aid is essential, he encourages Singaporeans not to be timid in expressing their opinions on international conflicts.
The Israel-Hamas conflict has sparked diverse online reactions across Southeast Asia, with varying degrees of activism and criticisms. Netizens in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore have found digital platforms to voice their opinions, reflecting the region’s nuanced perspectives on a complex international issue.
