Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil says under-16s must use parent-managed accounts to protect minors from online risks and predators
KUALA LUMPUR: Children under the age of 16 will not be permitted to open their own social media accounts.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil stated that only accounts managed by parents on behalf of their children are allowed.
This measure aims to protect minors from online safety risks, including cyber predators who may contact children through these platforms. “The key issue is who controls the account,” Fahmi said at a press conference.
“We do not want children controlling the accounts themselves.” He explained that parent-managed accounts allow guardians to monitor for contact from unknown individuals.
The government is implementing a regulatory sandbox with social media platforms to enforce the minimum age limit of 16 for new registrations.
Malaysia’s approach differs from models like Australia’s Age Assurance, instead leveraging legislation related to the MyKad for identity verification.
Fahmi clarified that children can still watch content on platforms like YouTube. However, they cannot open personal accounts which enable direct messaging from strangers.
He also urged parents to be more attentive to their children’s digital activities. “Devices are not babysitters,” Fahmi emphasised.
“Parents also have responsibilities.” The minister advised against allowing children to use devices for extended periods without supervision.
The press conference was held after the ‘Sejahtera MADANI Welfare Programme’ in Lembah Pantai.
The event also saw RM500 in aid presented to 150 asnaf recipients registered under the eKasih system.
