KUALA LUMPUR, 24 November 2025 — Malaysia plans to ban social media use for individuals under 16 years old beginning next year, becoming the latest country to consider sweeping restrictions on youth access to digital platforms amid growing child safety concerns.
Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the government is studying age-restriction mechanisms used in Australia and other countries, noting the need to shield young users from online harms including cyberbullying, financial scams and child sexual abuse.
“We hope by next year that social media platforms will comply with the government’s decision to bar those under the age of 16 from opening user accounts,” he told reporters, according to a video shared by local daily The Star.
Global Push for Stricter Youth Protection
Concerns around the impact of social media on children have intensified globally. Several major platforms, including TikTok, Snapchat, Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL) and Meta Platforms, are facing lawsuits in the United States over allegations that their products have contributed to a youth mental health crisis.
Australia is expected to enforce account deactivations for users under 16 next month as part of a wide-ranging national ban. France, Spain, Italy, Denmark and Greece are jointly testing an age-verification app that could become a template for other countries.
Regional Trends: Indonesia Adopts Softer Approach
Neighbouring Indonesia previously proposed a minimum age requirement for social media use but later issued a more moderate regulation compelling tech platforms to strengthen age verification and filter harmful content.
Malaysia Tightens Oversight of Digital Platforms
Malaysia has tightened scrutiny of social media companies in recent years in response to what authorities say is an increase in harmful content, including online gambling promotions and posts relating to race, religion and royalty.
Under a regulation that took effect in January, platforms and messaging services with over 8 million Malaysian users are now required to obtain a license to operate in the country.
The government’s proposed under-16 ban would further expand Malaysia’s regulatory framework and could place the country among the most restrictive digital environments in Southeast Asia.
Source: The Star
