Ban on social media for under-16s a vital early shield against cyber threats
The move was timely as children below that age were still in a phase of cognitive and emotional development and are not yet fully mature.
SHAH ALAM – The government’s proposal to prohibit individuals under the age of 16 from opening social media accounts, expected to take effect next year is seen as an essential early defence to protect Malaysian children from increasingly serious cyber threats.
Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris psychology and counselling expert Dr Fauziah Mohd Saad said the move was timely as children below that age were still in a phase of cognitive and emotional development and were not yet fully mature.
“Children under 16 are the most easily manipulated group, including being at risk of online sexual grooming and cyberbullying. So, this step by the government is indeed appropriate.
“Society, especially parents, must also realise that excessive exposure to social media at a young age can impact this group significantly, particularly their mental and emotional wellbeing.
“These effects may disrupt their focus, increase social pressure, interfere with the formation of self-image and expose them to cyberbullying and toxic content. At this age, they are simply not mature enough to critically filter information,” she told Sinar.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said on Sunday said the government aimed to enforce the social media ban for individuals under 16 beginning next year.
He said the restriction followed a Cabinet decision to curb cybercrimes across age groups, including protecting children from sexual predators.
Commenting further on the risks faced by young children exposed to social media too early, Fauziah said the most worrying impact was addiction, both to screens and to content that was inappropriate for their age.
“This age restriction can significantly reduce risks, especially cybercrimes involving children, but its effectiveness depends on enforcement and parental cooperation,” she added.
She also reminded parents to act as “digital gatekeepers” by monitoring gadget use, ensuring their children do not create fake accounts, educating them on digital safety and building open communication at home.
“Parents themselves must model healthy technology use so that this policy can be implemented effectively,” she said.
Download Sinar Daily application.Click Here!
