Malaysia to Ban Social Media Accounts for Children Under 16 to Enhance Online Safety

Malaysia is set to introduce a policy preventing children under 16 from creating social media accounts, aiming to create a safer online environment for young users. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil stated that the government is studying regulations from countries like Australia to develop an effective framework. Social media platforms are expected to comply with the new rules by next year, restricting access for users below 16.

The minister highlighted that a combined effort from the government, platforms, and parents can make the internet safer for children and families. This move follows Malaysia’s recent push to strengthen online monitoring amid rising cybercrime. Under the new digital regulations, platforms with more than eight million users must obtain a license, underscoring the country’s growing focus on internet safety and regulation.