Parents urged to supervise children online as harmful content rises and digital devices replace direct care in Malaysia
KUALA LUMPUR: Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has warned that the growing use of digital devices as “electronic babysitters” is exposing children to serious online risks, amid a persistent rise in harmful content on the internet in Malaysia.
He urged parents to reflect on whether technology is being used responsibly or whether the role of raising and educating children has effectively been “handed over to screens” with smartphones, tablets and televisions increasingly replacing direct parental engagement.
“We live in a technological era where smart devices are no longer foreign, but part of daily life.
“While they bring many benefits, the question is whether we are using them wisely or allowing devices to become a second caregiver,” he said at the launch of the Safe Internet Campaign 2026.
Fahmi said it had become common to see children pacified with mobile phones or tablets, both at home and in public spaces, warning that such habits could expose them to serious online harm if left unchecked.
Citing enforcement data, he said between 2022 and 2025, a total of 851,228 harmful online content items were removed by service providers following continuous monitoring and reporting by the MCMC.
“The total includes grossly offensive content involving children. This clearly shows that online threats are real and ongoing, and parents are the most important first line of defence.”
On enforcement, Fahmi highlighted the cooperation between the police and MCMC through Op Pedo 1.0 and Op Pedo 2.0, which led to firm action against individuals involved in the possession and distribution of child sexual exploitation material online.
He also pointed to the enforcement of the Online Safety Act 2025 (Onsa), effective Jan 1, which obliges social media platforms to take greater responsibility in addressing online harms.
Specific child protection measures, including the minimum age of 16 years for social media account registration, are currently being tested under a regulatory sandbox before full implementation. However, Fahmi stressed that safeguarding children online cannot rest solely on the government.
“Parents and guardians play a crucial role as the first line of protection in safeguarding children from digital threats.”
With the festive season approaching, Fahmi also cautioned the public about an increase in scams.
“We know that in the coming weeks, we will be celebrating Chinese New Year and shortly after, Hari Raya.
“At this time, parents will start taking out money for preparation and daily expenses. Scammers view this period as a prime opportunity to target victims. This is the season for them to go ‘fishing’,” he said.
He urged the public to be wary of SMS messages containing hyperlinks.
“If you receive an SMS with a link, do not click on it. MCMC has issued a directive to all telecom providers since last year that SMS messages must not contain hyperlinks.
“The success of the Safe Internet Campaign 2026 hinges on collaboration between the government, educational institutions, parents, industry players and society as a whole. Let’s join hands to ensure a safer digital space for everyone.”
