UNICEF says age bans alone won’t keep children safe online, urging stronger platform responsibility, safer design and a rights-based approach to digital safety.
PETALING JAYA: Imposing age bans on social media is not enough to protect children from online risks, and a broader, rights-based approach to digital safety is needed, says United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
In a statement today, UNICEF Malaysia deputy representative Sanja Saranovic said that while the government’s Online Safety Act 2025 and efforts to hold tech platforms accountable to tackle child sexual abuse material (CSAM) are welcome, age restrictions cannot stand alone.
“Families are overwhelmed. Children are encountering bullying, grooming and sexual exploitation online, and the status quo is clearly failing them.
“But simply banning younger users from social media will not solve the problem. Many will still find ways to go online, often through less regulated platforms, where it is harder to protect them and they will be less likely to seek help when something goes wrong.”
Saranovic emphasised that digital platforms are essential for many children including those who are isolated or have disabilities as spaces for learning, connection and self-expression.
She said any safety measures must balance protection with children’s rights to information, participation and privacy.
“UNICEF is calling for stronger platform responsibility, including safer product design, CSAM detection systems, effective moderation and child-friendly reporting tools.
“We also urged platforms to adopt age-appropriate designs instead of relying solely on bans, and to use evidence-based, privacy-preserving age-assurance tools.”
Saranovic recommended stronger regulatory oversight, including powers for systemic risk assessments, independent audits and greater transparency from tech companies.
She added that parents, caregivers and schools must also be supported with better digital literacy and resources.
“Online safety cannot rely on enforcement alone. Platforms, regulators, families, schools and communities must work together to create digital environments that are safe, inclusive and rights-respecting for every child.
“UNICEF remains ready to work with the Malaysian government, regulators and civil society to ensure children can safely navigate the digital age.”
Previously, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the government plans to ban children under 16 from using social media starting next year.
The move comes amid rising concerns over cyberbullying, sexual harassment, and disciplinary problems among schoolchildren, often linked to early, unregulated exposure to social media.
Social media platforms are expected to comply with the government’s directive to block accounts for children under 16.
