Putrajaya considers barring under-13s from having social media accounts

The Malaysian government is considering the implementation of stricter enforcement measures on social media usage, including the prohibition of children aged below 13 from owning social media accounts. 

Communications minister Fahmi Fadzil told parliament, that although social media platforms already have age restrictions in place, it is not currently sufficient. "Unfortunately, if any of the members of parliament here were to meet with any group of students under 13, and ask if they own a TikTok account, many of them will say yes," he said. 

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"This should not be happening, and even TikTok themselves have acknowledged the issue," Fahmi added. Hence, the ministry is considering a proposal to ban children under 13 from owning social media accounts. 

For those aged above 13, the government is also considering the provision of digital literacy modules. "This is so they understand the harms that are present in the online world today, and be aware of the steps they need to take, as not everything we see online is the truth," said Fahmi.

The minister was responding to a supplementary question from a fellow MP regarding a proposal to create a special policy for the wellbeing of young children in relation to online content. 

In a written response to questions posed by the MPs of Tumpat, Sembrong and Hulu Selangor, Fahmi also stated that the communications ministry is ramping up efforts to curb harmful online content targeting children and teenagers, with new regulatory moves aimed at social media and messaging platforms.

He said, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has taken down over 1,400 pieces of harmful content involving minors since January 2022, and continues to work with platforms such as YouTube and TikTok to make algorithms more transparent and aligned with local regulations.

From January 2025, platforms that meet licensing thresholds must obtain a class licence [ASP(C)] under the Communications and Multimedia Act, ensuring they are accountable for content moderation and algorithm management. A new code of conduct also outlines expectations around age verification, parental controls, and safety audits.

Complementing this is the Online Safety Act 2025, which requires platforms to submit online safety plans and comply with obligations to manage risk and protect young users. MCMC is currently drafting supporting regulations under the Act, with a focus on child safety.

The government’s "Safe internet campaign", launched earlier this year, has already reached over 60,000 students in 559 institutions, raising awareness of digital risks such as grooming and child sexual abuse material. Fahmi also stressed the importance of parental involvement in monitoring children’s digital activity, calling for a shared responsibility in creating a safer online space.

Earlier in January this year, Fahmi said the Malaysian government has no plans to implement age restrictions for online access, communication minister Fahmi Fadzil reportedly said at a press conference (22 Jan).

Alternatively, the country would take on a more balanced approach when addressing online safety issues, specifically cases involving children, said Fahmi, reported Bernama. This includes taking into account the country's socio-cultural background and legal landscape. Fahmi said that the MCMC would continue to strengthen international ties with other regulatory bodies to address concerns of online crimes. 

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