The Malaysian government is currently reviewing strict measures to strengthen child protection in the digital space, including the potential implementation of a full ban on social media accounts for children under the age of 13. This was announced by Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil during a parliamentary session on July 29.
According to Fahmi, while most social media platforms, such as TikTok, officially prohibit users under 13 from registering, real-world practices tell a different story.
“Unfortunately, if you go to any school and ask students under 13 whether they have TikTok accounts, many will say yes — and that is a breach (of terms), acknowledged even by TikTok,” he said during the Dewan Rakyat session.
This firm stance is part of the government's broader effort to enforce age restrictions more effectively. Fahmi stressed that ensuring children's online safety is not the sole responsibility of the government, it also requires active participation from platform providers and parents alike.
Harmful Content: Alarming Numbers
Data shared by the ministry points to serious concerns. Between January 1, 2022, and July 15, 2025, a total of 1,443 pieces of extreme or harmful content involving children were removed by service providers at the request of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). These contents were found to be in violation of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 and the respective platforms’ community guidelines.
These takedown actions highlight that the digital world is far from entirely safe—especially for children who remain vulnerable to harmful psychological and behavioral influences online.
Digital Literacy for Teens: Equipping the Next Generation
In response to the increasingly complex digital landscape, the Ministry of Communications is also launching a digital literacy module targeted at teenagers aged 13 and above. The module aims to help young people better understand the online information ecosystem and develop critical thinking skills.
“Not everything we see on social media is necessarily true,” Fahmi noted.
Support for Child-Friendly Local Content
Fahmi further emphasized the importance of cross-agency investment and collaboration to increase the availability of local, child-friendly content that reflects Malaysian cultural values. He cited Durioo, a local children’s content platform that has partnered with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), as a model worth strengthening.
“I will ask FINAS to look into how we can increase the volume of quality content for children, especially those aligned with our values,” he added.
Legal Review to Combat Child Pornography
Meanwhile, Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Shamsul Anuar Nasarah stated that his ministry is currently reviewing five key laws to strengthen enforcement against child pornography cases.
The laws under review include the Film Censorship Act 2002, the Printing Presses and Publications Act 1984, the Sexual Offences Against Children Act 2017, the Evidence Act 1950, and the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
This review aims to close legal loopholes, particularly concerning digital evidence, cross-border jurisdiction, and more effective online monitoring.
Between 2021 and June 2025, a total of 287 cases involving the production, possession, distribution, and uploading of child pornography materials have been investigated, with around 90% of offenders successfully prosecuted. This underscores the seriousness of the issue, which directly concerns the safety of children.
Toward a Safer Digital Ecosystem
The government is also tightening regulations on digital platform providers. Starting January 1, 2025, internet and social media service providers are required to apply for a Class Licence in accordance with the Communications and Multimedia Act. This policy is intended to hold platforms accountable for content moderation and the algorithms they use.
In addition, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is actively engaging with service providers such as YouTube and TikTok to push for greater algorithm transparency and ensure compliance with Malaysian laws.
