Television entertainment vis-a-vis Muslim teenagers in Malaysia : an analytical study from Qur'an and sunnah perspectives

Abstract

The study stems from the observation made by the researcher that a considerable number of Muslim teenagers tend to adopt behavioral patterns deviating from the norms of the Malay-Muslim culture. As teenagers are susceptible to media influence. This study attempts to examine the contents of Malaysian television entertainment in order to find-'out whether there are elements of values and behavior portrayed on television which may not be compatible with Qur'anic moral and ethical values (re: Islamic values). This study analyzes Malay dramas aired or/channels three and nine on Malaysian television from January to December 2008. It focuses on the values that Malay dramas present to teenagers. From the analysis of themes, social issues and characterization it is clear that there are elements in Malay dramas that may adversely affect the value system of Muslim teenagers. It is also noteworthy that television entertainment has become an important source of information and socialization of Malaysian teenagers today.