The Minister of Communications Fahmi Fadzil revealed that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), has partnered with five major telecommunications providers in the country, to prohibit children under 15 years old from having social media accounts such as TikTok, X, Facebook, and others.
To prevent the children from following negative trends on social media, the collaboration with CelcomDigi, Maxis, UMobile, Telekom Malaysia (TM), and TIME will introduce Parental Control Tools, software solutions designed to enable parents or guardians to monitor, filter, limit, and block online content and activities accessed by their children.
Acknowledging the age restrictions set by most social media platforms, which require users to be at least 13 years old, the government emphasised the importance of parental supervision in ensuring compliance and safeguarding children’s online experiences.
While recognising the potential benefits of positive online interactions, authorities stress the crucial role of parents or guardians in digital parenting and encourage them to explore alternative online platforms and content alongside their children.
In addition to technological solutions, the government has intensified educational initiatives to raise awareness about internet safety among children and parents alike.
“To address the risks and threats to children, whether caused by others or their own behavior, the implementation of education and awareness programs on internet safety continues to be enhanced through initiatives such as the Click Wisely (Klik Dengan Bijak) and Malaysia ICT Volunteer (Sukarelawan ICT Malaysia) programs in schools, as well as the National Information Dissemination Centers (Nadi) nationwide.” Fahmi said.
These efforts are further strengthened through collaborations with various agencies, non-governmental organisations, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders to develop educational modules focusing on online child protection.
Modules such as the Family and Child Safety Education Module (PEKA), Smart Start 2.0 Pre-Marriage Module, and Sustainable Teen Expression Program (PEARL) aim to equip parents, guardians, and children with the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the digital landscape safely.
