Key Facts
• On November 23, Malaysia announced plans to restrict social media use for under-16s.
• The policy aims to prevent bullying, fraud, and sexual crimes online.
• Implementation is targeted for completion by 2026.
• Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil confirmed the ban on social media accounts for under-16s.
• Malaysia plans to adopt electronic verification systems using official documents.
• Australia will enforce similar restrictions on platforms like YouTube and TikTok starting December 2025.
• France, Spain, and other European nations are also considering similar measures.
Summary
Malaysia has announced plans to restrict social media use for children under 16 by 2026. The initiative, confirmed by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, aims to protect minors from online risks such as bullying, fraud, and sexual crimes. The government is exploring electronic verification systems, similar to those used in financial institutions, to enforce the policy. This move aligns with global trends, as countries like Australia, France, and Spain are implementing or considering similar restrictions. Australia, for instance, will begin enforcing a law in December 2025 that limits social media access for under-16s on platforms like YouTube and TikTok. These measures reflect growing international efforts to safeguard children in the digital age.
