The Malaysian government is considering restricting access to the popular gaming platform Roblox as part of a wider review into online safety for children. This decision comes in response to growing safety concerns and the risk of children being exposed to inappropriate or violent content.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Nancy Shukri said the proposal is still under review, and Malaysia will evaluate how similar measures are being implemented abroad — particularly in Australia, which is expected to introduce new regulations on Roblox next month.
She said this while attending a temporary relief centre training and simulation programme in Sarawak, noting that any decision will consider Malaysia’s own cultural and social context.
Concerns Sparked By Johor Incident
The discussion gained urgency following an incident in Batu Pahat, Johor, where a six-year-old boy was allegedly stabbed by his nine-year-old brother after an argument related to the game. Police investigations are ongoing.
Nancy said the government takes such incidents seriously, adding that any potential restrictions would prioritise child safety without disregarding the social or educational benefits of online platforms.
Roblox Defends Its Safety Controls
Meanwhile, Roblox co-founder and CEO Dave Baszucki has said parents should decide whether their children should access the platform if safety is a concern. In an interview with the BBC, Baszucki stated that while the company constantly strengthens its safety systems, “parents should always have the final word on what their children are allowed to play.”
He said Roblox continuously monitors for bullying, harassment and inappropriate behaviour, and will act — including involving law enforcement — where necessary. The platform uses automated moderation, human review, and parental control tools to protect younger players.
In November 2024, Roblox introduced new measures restricting social hangouts and unrated content for users under 13. It also began requiring creators to rate their games according to their intended audience.
However, despite these controls, reports and tests by broadcasters have shown that younger users can still encounter unsafe or unsuitable environments online.
A Platform Popular Among Young Users
Roblox currently records over 80 million daily active users, with around 40% under the age of 13, making it one of the most widely used gaming and creation platforms globally.
Baszucki maintained that while Roblox is committed to creating a safe experience, “even one bad incident is too many.” He urged parents to stay engaged and informed about their children’s gaming habits to ensure healthy digital experiences.
