Entertainment Media Channels Usage Patterns During the Movement Control Order (MCO) Period in Malaysia

Abstract

With the increase of the new COVID-19 cases, the Movement Control Order (MCO) was introduced in Malaysia on March 18, 2020. It requires the closure of all businesses except those providing essential services and goods. The daily life of Malaysians changed tremendously due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and all Malaysians had to adapt to the new normal. Thus, Malaysians turn to media channels to acquire authentic news and information. The entertainment media channel also changes its role in providing news and stories to Malaysians. This study focused on the use of entertainment media channels during the period of the MCO in Malaysia. A total of 10 informants were interviewed using a qualitative approach. Data were transcribed verbatim. The results of this study found that during MCO, Malaysians uses entertainment media channels as the new normal, as a means of entertainment, to read the news online, play online games and generate income on digital platform and watch free TV channels. In conclusion, media entertainment channels have contributed to reducing the stress faced by Malaysians and to provide authentic information throughout the MCO period.