Parents Welcome Social Media Ban for Children Under 16 | KiddyNews

New Restriction Expected to Begin 1 Jan 2026

Parents in Malaysia have expressed strong support for the government’s move to ban children under 16 from accessing social media, calling it a timely step to protect young users from harmful online content.

The restriction, expected to take effect on Jan 1, comes amid growing concern over violent, sexual and AI-generated material circulating on the Internet.

Parents Say Children Must Be Shielded From Adult Content

Personal assistant R. Chitra, 46, said young children should not be exposed to online content meant for adults.

“It is important for them to embrace themselves as children… There is just too much inappropriate content for children online, and we should not allow them to be exposed to all of that,” she said.

Chitra shared that her two sons, aged 13 and 16, do not have direct access to their social media accounts.

“I am the one administering these accounts… they are still somewhat on social media but under very strict control,” she added.

AI-Generated Content Adds New Fears for Parents

Housewife Rebacca Wong, 29, said she has grown increasingly worried about the surge of AI-generated content on social media.

“Sometimes even we as adults are unable to tell whether the content is genuine or AI-generated,” she said.

She added that vulgar language, violent and sexual material, and the presence of online predators make social media an unsafe space for children.

Recent Violence Highlighting Urgency, Says Parent

Management assistant Aisha Mohd Yusof, 38, said recent violent incidents involving children underline the need for stronger online protections.

“Although parents have the responsibility to monitor their children, I think some regulations from the government and social media platforms would really help too,” she said.

Part of Online Safety Act 2025 Framework

On 4 Dec 2025, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced Malaysia’s plan to prohibit social media access for children under 16 and tighten content controls for users under 18.

These measures are among 10 subsidiary laws being drafted under the Online Safety Act 2025.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission is currently developing detailed regulations to ensure safer, age-appropriate digital spaces for young users.

Parents Hope for Clear Guidelines and Smooth Implementation

Parents have expressed hope that the ban will be accompanied by clear enforcement guidelines, practical steps for families, and close cooperation from social media companies. Many believe the policy, if implemented effectively, will create a safer digital environment and ease parents’ growing concerns about online risks. What do you think about this upcoming ban?

Source:

The Star  – “Parents breathe sigh of relief with new under-16 social media ban”

Thoughtfully adapted by KiddyNews. Keeping parents and educators informed with the latest ECCE developments from Malaysia and beyond.