A senator has proposed a RM100 million fine for social media platforms that fail to enforce a minimum age of 16, citing the need to protect children from online risks.
KUALA LUMPUR: A senator has proposed a RM100 million fine for social media service providers that fail to enforce a minimum age policy of 16 for new accounts.
Datuk Seri S. Vell Paari said firm action was needed, aligning with Australia’s move to impose fines of up to AUD50 million on non-compliant companies.
He argued the hefty fine is justified by the billions in profits these companies make and the urgent need to protect children from harmful online content.
“If the fine is too low, they won’t be deterred. They can pay the fine and continue to commit the same offence,” he said during the Dewan Negara’s debate on the Supply Bill (Budget 2026).
He warned that a lack of age control exposes children to risks like online fraud, cyberbullying, extreme content, and AI-driven manipulation.
“Social media and AI are like knives. They can be used for education, business and communication, but without control, they can be damaging and harmful to children’s minds,” he added.
Last week, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the government aims for all platforms to implement digital identity verification (eKYC) by mid-2026 to enforce the age limit.
The move is intended to protect children from online exploitation, with discussions already underway with relevant agencies and platforms.
Meanwhile, Senator Datuk Abdul Halim Suleiman urged more decisive action to control content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
He expressed concern over commercial algorithms promoting inappropriate material that could erode children’s identity and discipline.
“If there are no laws to take action against this advertising, we are concerned that technology will erode our children’s identity and discipline,” he said.
