Cover image via Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp for the latest stories and breaking news.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has announced that minors must have parent-managed social media accounts to ensure online safety
According to the New Straits Times, Fahmi said children under 16 are now prohibited from opening their own social media accounts.
The move, he said, aims to shield children from online predators.
Fahmi clarified that while personal accounts for children are a no-go, parents can still manage accounts on their behalf
This ensures a layer of supervision where adults can monitor any suspicious contact from strangers.
He emphasised that the government is currently testing a "regulatory sandbox" with tech platforms.
This initiative aims to enforce a minimum registration age of 16 for all new social media users in the country.
Unlike the age assurance models seen in Australia, Malaysia plans to use MyKad-related legislation for identity and age verification
This adds a localised security element to the sign-up process for better age control.
"Children can still watch content such as on YouTube, but they cannot open their own accounts as personal accounts allow unknown individuals to contact them," Fahmi explained.
He also reminded parents that digital tools should not replace active parenting.
Fahmi stressed that parents should closely monitor their children's online activities.
"Devices are not babysitters. Parents also have responsibilities," Fahmi said during the Sejahtera Madani Welfare Programme yesterday
He warned against allowing children to use smartphones for long periods without any supervision.
