Malaysia to Ban Children Under 16 From Social Media, Echoing Australia

On Sunday, Malaysian authorities announced a new policy that will prohibit anyone under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms. The move comes just weeks before a similar restriction is set to be enforced in Australia.

What the Announcement Entails

The government statement was brief and offered few specifics about implementation. However, officials indicated that the ban will apply to all major social networking services, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter. Users who are 15 years old or younger will be blocked from creating new accounts or logging into existing ones.

Rationale Behind the Ban

Lawmakers say the measure is intended to protect minors from the mental‑health risks associated with excessive screen time and online harassment. “Our children deserve a safe digital environment,” one minister said, adding that the policy aligns with broader efforts to promote healthier lifestyles among youth.

Comparison With Australia’s Plan

Australia is slated to introduce a comparable restriction later this month, requiring platforms to verify the age of users and block access for those under 16. Malaysia’s decision appears to be a pre‑emptive step, aiming to stay in step with regional trends and international best practices.

Potential Impact and Next Steps

Critics warn that the ban could push teens toward unregulated alternatives or encourage the use of fake identities. The government has promised to work with tech companies to develop age‑verification tools and to launch public‑education campaigns to help families navigate the new rules.

Further details, including enforcement mechanisms and penalties for non‑compliance, are expected to be released in the coming weeks.