Nancy Shukri cautions parents on the risks of using phones to calm kids, citing harm to development and exposure to inappropriate content
LUNDU: The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development has warned against the imprudent use of smartphones as digital babysitters for children.
Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said using devices to quiet children harms their emotional and social development.
She added it also risks exposing them to inappropriate content without proper monitoring.
“Malaysia actually has laws and regulations regarding the control of the use of smart devices among children, but their implementation still needs to be strengthened,” she said.
Nancy stated the issue represents a cultural shift in how children are educated.
“Phones cannot be used as babysitters. It should be used in a controlled and prudent manner,” she told reporters after a Children’s Day event in Kampung Sempadi.
She cited Australia’s ban on smartphones for children under 16 as a reference point.
However, Nancy explained Malaysia does not need new laws as existing provisions are sufficient.
“The focus now is to strengthen enforcement and educate the community to be more responsible,” she said.
She emphasised the need for greater parental awareness and multi-stakeholder involvement. – Bernama
