Malaysia has announced plans to prohibit children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms, aligning with Australia’s recent measures. The decision follows growing concerns over online safety and the impact of social media on youth. The announcement, made on Sunday, was brief and provided limited details, leaving many questions about the implementation and enforcement of the new policy.
Social media platforms have been under intense scrutiny in Malaysia in recent months, as authorities seek to address issues related to online safety and the influence of social media on young users. The government has been under pressure to regulate content and protect minors from potential harm, including exposure to cyberbullying, misinformation, and inappropriate material. This move is seen as part of a broader effort to manage the digital environment and ensure that children are not exposed to harmful or addictive online content.
While the exact details of the new regulation remain unclear, the government has indicated that it will work closely with social media companies to establish guidelines and enforce the restrictions. The timing of the announcement, weeks before Australia’s similar action takes effect, suggests that Malaysia is drawing inspiration from international examples to shape its own policy. However, the effectiveness of such measures will depend on the collaboration between regulators and technology companies, as well as the ability to monitor and enforce compliance across the country.