Malaysia’s Shocking Move: Social Media Ban for Under-16s Starts in 2026—What Parents MUST Know!

Starting next year, Malaysia will join a growing list of countries by implementing a ban on social media use for individuals under the age of 16. This initiative is part of a broader global effort to enhance child safety online, as concerns about the effects of social media on youth mental health and well-being intensify.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced the plan on Sunday, revealing that the government is actively reviewing the age restriction mechanisms employed by countries such as Australia and others. He emphasized the necessity of protecting young people from various online threats, including cyberbullying, financial scams, and child sexual abuse. According to a video of his remarks shared by local daily The Star, he stated, "We hope by next year that social media platforms will comply with the government's decision to bar those under the age of 16 from opening user accounts."

The increasing scrutiny over the impact of social media on children's health has prompted significant action globally. Major platforms like TikTok, Snapchat, Google, and Meta Platforms—the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp—are facing a multitude of lawsuits in the United States, with allegations that they have contributed to a rising mental health crisis among young users.

In Australia, significant measures are already in place, with social media accounts for users under 16 set to be deactivated as part of an extensive ban slated for implementation next month. This move is part of a trend that regulators worldwide are monitoring closely.

Other countries are also taking similar steps. France, Spain, Italy, Denmark, and Greece are collaborating to test a template for an age verification app. Meanwhile, Indonesia, Malaysia's neighboring country, indicated earlier this year that it would establish a minimum age requirement for social media users. However, the regulations that followed were less stringent, focusing instead on requiring tech platforms to filter negative content and enforce stronger age verification procedures.

In recent years, the Malaysian government has intensified its oversight of social media companies, citing a surge in harmful content such as online gambling and inflammatory posts concerning race, religion, and royalty. As a result, platforms and messaging services with over 8 million users in Malaysia are now obligated to obtain a license under new regulations that took effect in January.

As nations grapple with the complexities of digital engagement and child safety, Malaysia's upcoming policy reflects a significant shift in digital governance aimed at protecting the most vulnerable users. The implications of such regulations extend beyond individual countries, as they signal a growing consensus among governments worldwide about the need for heightened protection measures for children navigating the digital landscape.