KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 19 — Nearly 80 per cent of Malaysians who use TikTok weekly say the platform has become a key space for learning, cultural connection and personal well‑being, according to a new survey by global consultancy Kearney.
The study, which polled 1,003 Malaysians aged 18 to over 60, found that 85 per cent believe TikTok makes learning more accessible, while 72 per cent credit it for helping with self‑improvement, career development and academic upskilling. Of the respondents, 990 use TikTok at least once a week.
Local creators featured in the report say the findings reflect how digital platforms have reshaped education and community engagement.
Cheras‑based maths tutor Fathi Hussein (@mathsanova), known for turning complex lessons into entertaining clips, said learning must “go beyond physical classrooms” and be accessible regardless of background. English teacher Ahmad Shahrul Azhan Ibrahim (@sir_asai), who has gained a following for his pronunciation tutorials, added that Malaysians’ willingness to learn voluntarily shows how “entertaining and welcoming” content can elevate communities.
Career educator Ku Sim Ling (@professionalbimbo), popularly known as Aunty HR, said digital platforms allow her to share practical workplace knowledge with a wider audience, helping Malaysians better understand their rights as employees and employers.
Cultural connection and community impact
The survey also found 84 per cent of respondents believe TikTok helps connect cultures, while 65 per cent say it fosters belonging and community engagement.
Creator Chin Pui Ting (@deadpudds), whose Mystical Malaysia series highlights heritage and cross‑cultural harmony, said understanding diverse traditions is key to building appreciation among Malaysians.
This cultural exchange extends into the local economy, with entrepreneurs such as Nur Farrah Diba Azhar (@farrahdibakuihbakul) and Haniesah Lai Binti Abdullah (@mamacahkitchen) offering Muslim‑friendly versions of traditional Chinese delicacies like nian gao and bak chang through TikTok Shop.
Knowledge‑sharing for social progress
Science communicator Muhammad Azamudeen bin Mohammad Nasir (@azamuddeennasir), a PhD student studying peat swamp fish ecology, said online communities have evolved into important spaces for public discourse and conservation awareness. Human rights advocate Roshinee Mookaiah (@roshineemookaiah) has similarly used TikTok to rally civic participation, including her Dilarang Ponteng Parlimen petition, which drew 1,475 signatures.
Hobbies, stress relief and mental health
The survey shows 79 per cent of users discover new hobbies on TikTok, while 77 per cent use the platform to manage stress.
National ice‑skating athlete Ashley Chin (@hyeminkiim_) said sharing her training journey online helps promote sports and healthy lifestyles. Creators like Jelly Belly (@jellybelyyy), Mohamad Arif Ameerais Azhar (@ameerais) and Yumi (@jo.ppc1231) have also turned their musical talents into livelihoods through TikTok LIVE’s virtual gifting features.
Mental‑health organisations such as The Inner Lynk (@theinnerlynk) and Sage Centre (@thesagecentre) use the platform to share well‑being tips. Licensed counsellor Gia G. Kon of The Inner Lynk said open conversations online help break stigma and make emotional support feel more accessible.
TikTok said the findings highlight how Malaysian creators are driving real‑world impact across education, culture, entrepreneurship and mental health.
