Under-16 social media ban could push teens to riskier, unregulated platforms - Meta
Outright bans have often failed to achieve their intended goals.
KUALA LUMPUR - Meta has urged Malaysia to avoid imposing a blanket ban on social media for users under 16, cautioning that such restrictions could unintentionally expose young people to greater online risks.
Meta, the company behind Facebook, Instagram and WhatsAp said outright bans have often failed to achieve their intended goals, instead prompting teenagers to migrate on less regulated platforms with weaker safety protections.
Speaking at a press briefing, Meta’s Southeast Asia and Asean public policy director Clara Koh said countries that have adopted sweeping restrictions have struggled with enforcement and uneven safeguards.
“What we have seen in countries that have imposed a ban is that it hasn’t really been effective,” she said, adding that such measures can drive users towards fringe sites beyond regulatory oversight.
Malaysia is currently exploring plans to restrict social media access for those under 16, with the government aiming to secure cooperation from major platforms by mid-2026.
Koh said Meta is in ongoing discussions with Putrajaya, describing the engagement as 'constructive' and aimed at sharing lessons from other markets, including Australia.
While the company respects the government’s right to regulate, she stressed the need for a more nuanced approach.
“I think it’s really an opportunity for Malaysia to take a very nuanced and considered approach about how they want to craft youth regulation,” she said.
Meta argues that a total ban risks cutting teenagers off from the benefits of digital platforms, including social connection, self-expression and access to support networks.
Evidence from other countries, Koh said, suggests that limiting access can also lead to feelings of isolation among young users.
Instead, the company is advocating for a broader framework that applies consistent safety standards across all platforms, rather than targeting specific services.
Koh also highlighted the importance of involving parents more directly, suggesting that effective safeguards should empower families rather than rely solely on outright restrictions.
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