It cannot be denied that ‘drama’ is a part of everyday life. Whether we want them to or not, things happen. Unlike celebrities however, our drama isn’t publicised .
Recently, local YouTuber and social media influencer Yang Bao Bei (杨宝贝) had a spat with fellow friend and YouTuber Lim Shangjin (林尚进). Their spat, which took place on Instagram drew a lot of attention. It was to the point where , Lim’s ex-girlfriend Qiu Wen (秋雯) commented on it.
Last night (2nd June), Qiu Wen made a lengthy post on Instagram to address the YBB-Lim Shangjin issue. Their drama, which has played out over a time span of three weeks, has clearly exhausted her. Qiu Wen started her post by explaining she used to dislike conversations about online celebrities. However, she’s since changed her stance, saying it’s not unreasonable. She has observed that they tend to fight over things for a long time, without giving any leeway to each other. “What (are you fighting) for?” she questioned. “For attention or for your dignity?”
Qiu Wen stated that when online celebrities make a fuss on social media, fabricate facts, and take things out of context, it doesn’t help their image. “You will only let more people see your ugly side,” Qiu Wen said, speaking as another social media influencer. She clarified that her post was not meant to garner attention and increase her popularity. It was meant to be directed to the influencer circle. Qiu Wen felt that drama would distract people from wholesome content. “Traffic should be given to creators who create value and joy,” she said, emphasising that it was especially important during the Full Movement Control Order (FMCO).
The content creator made it clear that she had once believed what she was told. However, she doesn’t know what to believe anymore. Should she believe YBB who accused Shangjin of sexual harassment? Or should she trust her ex-boyfriend who keeps denying it and insisting on his innocence?
She addressed YBB, although not by name, saying, “I personally think that if you want to speak for women, I think it’s right.” But Qiu Wen added, “Please do your character justice, (do) not be a thief to catch a thief.” Her next paragraph is supposedly for Shangjin, although again, she mentioned no names. “I personally don’t (think there is any shame) in saying sorry,” she said. “What’s shameful is trying to explain yourself.” The YouTuber believes that the more explanations are given, the more it sounds like a cover up. “If you have (never) done it, why explain?”
Qiu Wen’s final message to the duo was very blunt and straightforward. “I want to ask; can you chat privately?” she said. “FMCO is annoying enough, please don’t mess up our rhythm with your stories.” Her post received an overwhelming and overall positive response from fans. Many were in agreement with her views, some even saying she had a high emotional quotient. Of course, netizens truly loved her request for the two quarrelling YouTubers to “chat privately”.
Although Shangjin has yet to respond to his ex-girlfriend’s post, YBB has not wasted any time in giving her response. The fiery YouTuber addressed several of Qiu Wen’s points, giving her view on each one. She feels as though Qiu Wen was trying to deflect the issue by consistently bringing up her past mistakes. YBB also emphasised that she had not lied about the sexual harassment. Additionally, she’s of the opinion that if the audience does not like her content, they can always choose not to watch it.
As for Qiu Wen’s direct message to her, YBB stated she may have her faults, yet she has never concealed them. “But I still have to (take a stand) and correct people,” she added. “(Scams) and sexual harassment are two (different) things.” As for Qiu Wen’s message to Shangjin, YBB disagrees with her views. “It’s better to apologise and admit (your wrongdoings),” she said.
It doesn’t seem as though YBB will be taking Qiu Wen’s advice anytime soon. However, Shangjin’s opinion on the entire matter has not been stated. For now, Qiu Wen has said her piece. Only time will tell if the duo will continue to air their grievances online or come to terms with it privately.
