MCMC is close to completing engagement sessions with social media platforms on implementing eKYC verification to enforce a minimum age of 16 for new accounts.
PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is close to completing its engagement sessions with social media platforms on implementing electronic Know-Your-Customer (eKYC) verification to enforce a minimum age of 16 for new accounts.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said that since the start of the year, MCMC has held consultations with all major platforms and relevant stakeholders, including MyDigital ID.
“The intention is for the verification process to utilise MyKad, passports and MyDigital ID to confirm users’ age.
“I understand MCMC is nearing completion of discussions with the platforms. I will receive further details before we announce the enforcement date to restrict the creation of new accounts,” he told reporters after officiating the ministry-level Jom Baca Bersama 2026 (Let’s Read Together) programme themed ‘Reading Builds the Nation’ here today.
Fahmi said new social media accounts will be limited to those aged 16 and above, with under-16s not permitted to register at all.
Meanwhile, Fahmi said that feedback from the social media platforms has been positive, with engagement sessions progressing smoothly.
“We are seeing some platforms taking the lead. For example, Bigo Live has, from the outset, implemented identity verification mechanisms.
“In recent days, I was also contacted by a party representing several international eKYC service providers.
“I have asked MCMC to engage with them, especially if there are applications used in other countries, such as Australia, for age verification that we could consider,” he added.
Previously, Fahmi said the government aims for all social media platforms to implement eKYC verification by the end of the second quarter of 2026 to enforce the minimum age requirement.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has said the proposal to impose an age limit on social media use among teenagers should be studied comprehensively with input from all stakeholders.
On the Jom Baca Bersama programme, Fahmi encouraged a stronger reading culture among ministry staff and the wider public as part of efforts to foster a more informed and positive mindset.
He said reading is not only essential for gaining knowledge but also for developing critical thinking skills, particularly among younger generations.
“Reading culture is vital in shaping minds, not just for acquiring knowledge, but also for cultivating more positive thinking,” he said.
Fahmi also launched the Tabung Buku (Book Fund) project, a dedicated platform for Communications Ministry staff to donate books for redistribution to communities in need nationwide.
