The Malaysian government is preparing to prohibit social media access for individuals under the age of 16 years of age starting in 2026. This move aligns the nation with Australia and an increasing number of countries that are seeking to impose stricter digital age restrictions for children, reported news agency The Associated Press.
The Minister of Communications, Fahmi Fadzil, announced on Sunday that the Cabinet has given its approval for the measure. This decision forms part of a wider initiative to protect young persons from online dangers, including cyberbullying, fraudulent schemes, and sexual exploitation. He confirmed that the government is studying methods adopted by Australia and other nations, particularly the potential utilisation of electronic verification against identity cards or passports to confirm users’ ages. The Minister did not specify the precise date when the ban would be enforced.
“I believe that if the government, regulatory bodies, and parents all play their roles, we can ensure that the Internet in Malaysia is not only fast, widespread and affordable but most importantly, safe, especially for children and families,” Mr Fadzil said.
Since January, all major social media and messaging platforms operating within Malaysia that possess at least 8 million users have been required to secure a formal licence. This requirement is part of a broader enhancement of state oversight concerning digital platforms. Licensed platforms must implement rigorous age verification, content-safety protocols, and transparency rules, reflecting the government's drive towards a safer digital environment.
The Australian parliament has already enacted the world’s first comprehensive ban on social media for children, which is set to commence on 10 December, fixing the minimum age at 16 years.
Major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Threads, TikTok, X, and YouTube, alongside message board Reddit and livestreaming service Kick, could face substantial penalties — fines of up to 50 million Australian dollars (approximately $33 million) are applicable for systemic failures to prevent children under 16 years from maintaining accounts.
Australia's pioneering legislation is being monitored closely by other nations that share concerns regarding the detrimental effects of social media on minors. Denmark’s government, for instance, announced plans earlier this month to ban social media access for anyone under the age of 15 years, although the practical details of enforcement remain unclear. Norway is also progressing with a proposed statute that would establish a minimum age limit of 15 years for accessing social media services.