Helping youth build emotional intelligence

The younger generation needs to strike a balance between emotional intelligence to manage and understand their emotions in themselves and others, and digital intelligence for problem-solving and decision-making.

With over 97% of Malaysians online and spending an average of eight hours a day on the Internet, our nation has rapidly embraced virtual connection.

Two decades ago, the idea of navigating between physical and digital worlds seemed like a scene from a science fiction film such as Doctor Strange, where heroes journey across realms to complete their missions.

Today, that very concept has become an everyday reality for Malaysians who study, work, socialise and even seek comfort online.

A generation growing up behind screens

For Malaysia’s young generation, who have grown up in an era of constant connectivity, technology shapes almost every part of their lives as digital natives.

According to the National Youth Survey 2024, 91% of Malaysians aged 18 to 30 use at least one social media platform such as TikTok, Instagram and Facebook, while communication apps such as WhatsApp have largely replaced handwritten letters and phone calls.

Educational institutions have followed suit, embedding online learning systems into their curricula to modernise how students learn and collaborate.

Yet, despite this connectivity, young Malaysians face an unprecedented paradox.

Between 2019 and 2023, the national rate of teenage depression doubled.

The constant pressure to keep up online has made “fear of missing out” (FOMO) and social comparison increasingly common.

Prolonged screen exposure can also reduce empathy and fuel online conflict.

Globally, experts warn of similar trends – whether with social media or artificial intelligence (AI) tools, excessive reliance on digital interaction can blur emotional boundaries, isolating users from real-world support systems.

These are risks Malaysia cannot ignore, as cyberbullying, scams and misinformation continue to rise.

Emotional intelligence as a digital life skill

To help youths thrive in this evolving environment, emotional intelligence (EI) must be treated as a core life skill, on par with digital literacy.

EI, the ability to recognise, understand and manage one’s emotions and empathise with others, equips individuals to stay grounded amid digital noise.

Emotionally intelligent individuals enjoy healthier relationships, stronger mental well-being and greater career success.

For youths, this means pausing before reacting to online provocations, setting healthy screen boundaries and knowing when to step away from digital spaces to rest and reflect.

In a world where a single post or click can have lasting consequences – from spending impulsively to posting hurtful comments – those with strong EI are more likely to respond thoughtfully instead of emotionally.

They also protect their boundaries by communicating calmly and balancing screen time with meaningful offline engagement.

Nurturing empathy in the digital age

EI also strengthens empathy.

When youths learn to consider the real person behind every screen, they are less likely to engage in cyberbullying or toxic exchanges.

Instead, they can use online spaces to build meaningful connections, foster constructive and respectful conversations, share knowledge responsibly and support one another.

Emotionally aware youths are also better equipped to recognise distress, both in themselves and others.

They effectively seek help from trusted friends, family or professionals, rather than turning to anonymous forums, AI chatbots or unverified sources for validation.

Malaysia’s call to action

To build a digitally resilient society, Malaysia must integrate EI training into homes, schools and workplaces.

Parents can model empathy and emotional awareness through open conversations, while educators can embed EI practices in classrooms through reflection exercises, group collaboration and community engagement.

Organisations and policymakers can further amplify these efforts through national mental well-being and cyber wellness campaigns.

Ultimately, nurturing EI is more than an educational initiative, it is a shared responsibility.

As Malaysia moves deeper into the digital era, our goal should be to raise a generation that not only excels in technology but also leads with empathy, intellect and emotional depth.

Jolene Chong Yen Yen is a lecturer at Taylor’s University's School of General Studies & Languages. For more information, email [e-mail]. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and should not be considered as medical advice. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this article. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.