Malaysian experts support the proposed 16-year minimum age for social media, urging balanced enforcement and stronger digital literacy education.
KUALA LUMPUR: The move to set a minimum age of 16 for social media use should not be seen as limiting children’s digital access, but as a measure to educate and better prepare them to navigate the online space safely and responsibly.
Children’s Commissioner Associate Professor Dr Mohd Al Adib Samuri said the proposal is a key step in reducing early exposure to risks such as harmful content, cyberbullying, sexual exploitation and privacy breaches.
He also suggested that the government develop an enforcement model suited to Malaysia’s context, in line with children’s rights principles.
“A sound policy protects children from harm while safeguarding their right to learn, grow and gradually engage in the digital world.
“Different approaches may be needed based on age, risk level and type of platform. Higher-risk platforms can face stricter controls, but digital spaces focused on education, communication and self-development should remain accessible,” he told Bernama today.
CPC International managing director and child psychologist Dr Noor Aishah Rosli said setting the minimum age at 16 is appropriate from a developmental perspective.
At that age, individuals are generally more capable of abstract thinking and emotional regulation, enabling more mature online interactions.
She said the age limit could help reduce risks among minors, including anxiety, depression, stress and social media addiction.
“This could also encourage healthier relationships with family and peers through physical activities, rather than relying solely on online interaction,” she said.
She also emphasised the need for proper regulation and active parental involvement in allowing minors to own devices and access social media.
“We cannot completely deny children the right to socialise, as it is essential to developing social identity. While the government and platforms play a role, parents must also remain actively involved.
“However, overly strict restrictions may lead to resistance, as young individuals tend to react negatively to excessive control. Parents should instead guide them towards beneficial content,” she added.
Meanwhile, Malaysian Cyber Consumer Association (MCCA) president Siraj Jalil said the proposed age limit must be complemented by stronger digital literacy from an early stage of education.
He said digital literacy is crucial, as the online environment is now an integral part of everyday life.
“Without it, users may create content without regard for others’ sensitivities, misuse platform features and struggle to distinguish between accurate and false information,” he said.
Siraj proposed that digital literacy education include modules on managing digital identity, cyber threats, device security, verifying information sources, and understanding the benefits, risks and potential misuse of artificial intelligence (AI)
National Parents-Teachers Association Consultative Council (PIBGN) president Associate Professor Datuk Dr Mohamad Ali Hasan described the proposal as a progressive step towards ensuring a safer online environment.
He urged the government to clearly outline how the policy will be implemented to ensure it achieves its intended goals.
“We need clarity on how restrictions will be enforced and which platforms are involved. If access to one platform is blocked, young users may simply turn to others,” he said.
Earlier, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is still conducting engagement sessions with relevant stakeholders.
He said the process aims to gather comprehensive feedback, address concerns and ensure the government’s goal of protecting children and families online is achieved.
The regulation is expected to be introduced as early as June.
