Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysian government is moving closer to enforcing a ban on social media use for children under the age of 16, with imple...
Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysian government is moving closer to enforcing a ban on social media use for children under the age of 16, with implementation expected by mid-2026, possibly in July. Authorities say the move aims to protect children from online harm, inappropriate content, and cyber harassment.
According to government sources, the decision is being implemented under the Online Safety Act 2025, which came into force on January 1, 2026. Communications and Digital Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil has confirmed that individuals under 16 will no longer be allowed to create social media accounts. The Cabinet decided in late 2025 to raise the minimum age limit from 13 to 16.
To enforce the restriction, the government plans to introduce an electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) system. Under this system, social media platforms will be required to verify users’ ages at the time of account creation using identification documents such as MyKad, passports, or MyDigital ID.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said the initiative is currently in the regulatory “sandbox” phase. During this stage, different methods are being tested to ensure effective and practical age verification. Full enforcement is expected by the middle of the year.
Authorities have stressed that the objective of the policy is protection, not punishment. The government has clarified that parents will not be held legally responsible once the ban comes into effect.
The move aligns with a growing global trend. Australia has already enforced a similar ban for children under 16. Malaysia is also moving toward stricter digital regulations amid rising concerns over mental health, online addiction, and exposure to harmful content.
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