SHAH ALAM - Malaysia is set to introduce a ban on social media access for users under the age of 16, as part of efforts to curb children’s exposure to harmful content and encourage greater focus on education.
The move, which is expected to take effect in the coming phase of digital regulation, comes amid rising concerns over the impact of social media on young users, including exposure to inappropriate content, excessive screen time and declining academic attention.
The proposal has drawn mixed reactions from the public, with some supporting the restriction as a necessary step for child protection, while others suggested a more balanced, controlled approach to online access.
Social media content creator Noor Ikhmal Haqim Noor Azhar, 24, backed the decision, saying children should prioritise their education before engaging with online platforms.
"This call is 100 per cent true. I believe children must focus on their studies first and only pursue what they want to do at the right time. School is important because without proper knowledge, they cannot go far in life," he told Sinar Daily.
Meanwhile, Azleen Rasyidah, 28, also expressed support for the government’s plan, citing concerns over unsuitable content available on social media platforms.
"I agree with the government’s proposal to ban social media access for those under 16. Sometimes there is content on TikTok that is not suitable for them, so I support the government’s decision," she said.
However, some believed a total ban may not fully address the issue, arguing instead for safer alternatives for younger users.
Social media content creator Calista Leah Liew said while social media posed risks, children were unlikely to be completely separated from digital platforms.
"I do think that social media is causing a lot of harm to the younger generation, but I also don’t think we can completely stop them from accessing it.
"Instead, there should be a more restricted version of social media for younger users, similar to YouTube Kids, where they are not exposed to adult content," she said.
She added that a controlled digital environment could help mitigate risks while still allowing connectivity.
Another social media content creator, Adelyn Heng Hui Rou, 32, also supported the government’s move, stressing that children at that age should prioritise education over online engagement.
"It is a good idea for the government to ban social media use for those below 16. At that age, they should focus more on their studies.
"As we know, platforms like TikTok already require users to be 18 and above to register an account," she said.