Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil has called for stricter enforcement of age restrictions on social media platforms, urging that platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and others comply with existing guidelines that limit users to those aged 13 and above.
He stressed the importance of ensuring that these platforms take responsibility for implementing these age limits, warning that the Ministry might take further action if these measures are not properly enforced.
The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) is currently developing a Code of Conduct for social media and messaging platform providers, which will be in place alongside a new licensing requirement starting 1 January 2025.
Under the new rules, social media platforms with over 8 million registered users in Malaysia will be required to obtain a Class Licence, and the licensing framework will help ensure safer online spaces.
However, Fahmi also pointed out that, despite the existence of age-related guidelines, there is a significant lack of action from platforms, and this often results in “lip service” enforcement. To address this, the MCMC is pushing for stronger collaboration between social media operators and local authorities to help curb online issues like misinformation, gambling, and cyberbullying.
Social media giants must adhere to new licensing rules and implement effective age checks by 2025.
Broad Definitions, Big Questions
While the government pushes for tougher regulations, concerns are growing over what exactly constitutes “social media” under the new laws. The line between social networking apps and other online services—such as WhatsApp, YouTube, or even blogs—remains unclear, prompting some to question the necessity and practicality of blanket age restrictions.
There is also concern about the broader implications, especially for children. Critics argue that the age limit laws could affect platforms used for educational purposes like Google Classroom or YouTube, making learning resources harder to access. Social media’s role in youth education, especially post-COVID, is a delicate issue that needs careful consideration.
Further concerns include the ability to enforce such rules. With many users lying about their age online, critics point out that stricter verification methods might require sensitive personal data, raising privacy and security risks. Should we be giving platforms more power over our personal information just to comply with age laws?
