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COMMUNICATIONS Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has raised serious concerns over closed social media algorithms designed to maximise user engagement, describing them as a growing threat to societal safety and the healthy development of children.
Speaking in an interview with Bernama, he warned that these “secret source” algorithms, which keep users returning to digital platforms, can be particularly harmful to children, who lack mature self-control.
“Adults may be able to stop using platforms because of responsibilities and other commitments, but children growing up with such algorithms, in situations where they are unable to resist, may experience impaired cognitive development and addiction issues,” Fahmi explained.
The minister cited a briefing from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) highlighting a sharp rise in crimes facilitated by social media, describing the numbers as alarming.
“The three most concerning forms of crime are sexual offences against children, scams, and online gambling. These crimes are rampant across multiple platforms,” he said.
Fahmi revealed the existence of a Facebook group called “Awek Budak Sekolah,” allowed to operate by the social media platform, which amassed 30,000 to 40,000 members, mostly male, despite its clear sexual exploitation content targeting children.
He also pointed to the misuse of public figures’ identities, including that of Prof Datuk Dr Muhaya Mohamad, where hundreds of fake accounts were created in her name to sell nonexistent health products, prompting warnings from the Ministry of Health. “Even though this issue has been raised, the fake accounts still exist, highlighting the platforms’ failure to act decisively,” Fahmi said.
The minister emphasised that ensuring the internet is a safe space is not solely the government or police’s responsibility, but requires active parental involvement. “Parents have a very significant role. Devices are not caregivers or substitutes for parents. Handing over devices to children for hours on end is extremely dangerous. Algorithms will addict our children, ultimately harming their character and future,” he warned, urging parents to monitor the content their children consume.
Fahmi also noted global concerns, including the spread of misinformation and algorithmic manipulation that can negatively shape public perception of national institutions, citing the misuse of artificial intelligence to defame public figures in other countries.
He stressed that the government does not intend to curb freedom of speech, aligning with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s stance against penalising critics. “We are free to speak, but not free to spread slander that causes significant harm to society and the nation. This cannot be allowed,” Fahmi asserted. - December 26, 2025
