Kuala Lumpur (Web Desk) Malaysia has introduced new online safety regulations making age verification compulsory for major social media platforms, while also imposing a complete ban on account creation for children under the age of 16.
The new rules will apply to all platforms with at least 8 million users in the country, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. However, regulators said companies will be given a limited timeframe to fully comply, though the exact duration has not been officially announced.
According to Malaysia’s Communications and Multimedia Commission, users will be required to verify their age using official documents such as a national identity card or passport.
Authorities said these measures are being taken to protect children and teenagers from the potential negative impacts of social media, amid growing global concern over the online safety of minors.
Companies violating the rules could face heavy fines of up to 10 million Malaysian ringgit.
Earlier, several countries including Australia and Indonesia have also taken similar steps to restrict social media use among minors, while various European countries are either considering or implementing comparable policies.
On the other hand, some human rights and freedom of expression organizations have raised concerns over the restrictions, arguing that rather than completely excluding children from digital platforms, it would be more effective to educate them on safe and responsible usage.