Future Leaders Competition 2025: Runner-Up – Nurul Iman Khairil

Visibility is power: media plurality in the algorithmic age

By Nurul Iman Khairil

Abstract:
This essay discusses how media plurality must be redefined in the algorithmic age as visibility
is shaped by platform algorithms rather than editorial decisions. It examines Malaysia’s 15th General
Election to illustrate the impact of user-generated content and algorithmic amplification. This essay
argues that while national regulation remains important, it must evolve through hybrid frameworks and
regional cooperation.

Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this essay are solely those of the author in their personal capacity and do not reflect the official policy, position, or views of the author’s past, current and/or future employer.