Mainstream and nonmainstream media in Malaysia: Does lack of credibility lead to displacement?

Abstract

The study examined how Malaysians perceive the credibility of mainstream versus alternative media in reporting on the public interest issue of the implementation of a goods and service tax (GST). Consistent with past research, our study established a positive link between credibility and media use. Further analysis shows an increase in the use of alternative media when the credibility of mainstream media decreases, suggesting support for a significant displacement effect.