Malaysia Implements Social Media Ban for Children Under 16 Amid Safety Concerns
Malaysia has initiated a ban on social media accounts for children under the age of 16, effective from Monday. This move is part of a broader global effort to enhance online safety for minors. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission mandates that social media platforms with over 8 million users, such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, implement age-verification systems to prevent underage account creation. Existing users identified as under 16 will have a month to download or transfer their data before restrictions are enforced. Companies failing to comply could face fines up to 10 million ringgit ($2.5 million). The government aims to protect children from harmful content and cyberbullying, although critics express concerns about data privacy and potential surveillance. Some families support the ban, believing it will encourage offline skills, while others worry it might drive children to unregulated internet spaces. 
