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THE rapidly evolving digital landscape has created new and deeply concerning risks for children, including the proliferation of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) through social media, gaming platforms and the dark web. Experts warn that Malaysia is not immune, and silence only emboldens predators.
“CSAM is not a foreign issue. It is happening here, on the phones and computers of our children,” Sinar Harian quoted Malaysian Cyber Consumer Association (MCCA) President Siraj Jalil saying.
“The public’s silence only gives space for predators to operate.”
CSAM encompasses any content—whether images, videos, illustrations, or manipulated visuals—that depicts the sexual abuse of minors. Offenders involved in possessing, distributing or creating CSAM face severe penalties under the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, including up to 30 years’ imprisonment. Additional provisions under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 also apply, carrying fines of up to RM50,000 or one year in prison for immoral content distribution.
Siraj explained that a common tactic used by perpetrators is “grooming,” where trust is built slowly before exploitation occurs. “We’ve seen cases where primary school children were contacted via online games and asked to send inappropriate photos. Without parental supervision, these crimes happen too easily.”
He called on parents, educators and the public to immediately report any suspicious behaviour to authorities or through platforms like aduan.mcmc.gov.my.
“Early education on digital safety is essential. Our children must be digitally literate and able to distinguish between safe and harmful interactions,” he stressed.
In a bid to curb digital threats like CSAM, the government has launched the Internet Safety Campaign (Kempen Internet Selamat, KIS) as a national initiative. Led by the Ministry of Communications and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), the campaign promotes responsible internet use and awareness across diverse demographics.
“KIS targets schoolchildren, university students, parents, teachers, senior citizens and the broader Madani community through talks, exhibitions, training and interactive competitions,” Siraj said.
Key KIS activities include an Interactive Internet Safety Module for children under 13, special guides for parents and teachers, and themed contests such as ‘Check Before You Share’ and ‘Menu Viral’. The campaign runs in two phases from January 2025 to 2027, involving over 10,000 schools, institutions, communities and Digital Economy Centres (NADI) nationwide.
The campaign also introduces core modules on digital literacy, the dangers of social media, and age-appropriate use of platforms. It aims to build a safer digital ecosystem with participation from NGOs, educators, parents and grassroots communities.
“Everyone has a role to play. We must take any suspicious behaviour involving children seriously,” Siraj urged.
Parental Blind Spots and Institutional Gaps
Former SK Serting Ilir PTA Chairperson, Nurulazma Shafiqah Khairul Azhar, noted that many parents wrongly assume such threats only occur abroad or during physical abductions.
“In reality, it can happen at home. A single photo uploaded without control already carries risks,” she said, adding that digital safety is rarely discussed at PTA meetings, which typically focus on academics and discipline.
She proposed the creation of Digital Safety Units within schools and PTAs to formulate awareness campaigns and guidelines for both students and parents. “Teachers also need training to recognise signs of digital exploitation,” she added.
Government efforts, she said, should be matched by clear, accessible messaging that reaches all segments of society.
Long-Term Emotional Toll
Senior Lecturer at USIM, Dr Nurhafizah Mohd Sukor, warned that exposure to CSAM causes profound and lasting trauma for children.
“Victims may experience shame, fear, anxiety and loss of trust. These emotional wounds can persist into adulthood,” she said.
Signs include behavioural changes, sleep disturbances, loss of appetite, social withdrawal and sudden mood swings. Children may also panic when confronted with content that reminds them of the abuse.
“In the long term, they may suffer from ‘flashbacks’ and emotional trauma linked to their abuser’s actions,” she explained.
Dr Nurhafizah urged parents to offer emotional support, keep communication channels open, and seek professional help if trauma symptoms appear.
As digital risks grow more complex, Malaysia must strengthen cross-sector cooperation, legal enforcement, and public awareness to ensure that children are protected not only by law, but by the informed vigilance of their communities. - June 10, 2025
