Australia and Malaysia are taking significant steps to regulate social media access for children under the age of 16. The Malaysian government recently announced that starting next year, children below 16 will be restricted from creating social media accounts. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil highlighted that the measure aims to improve child safety online and protect minors from exposure to harmful content. Authorities in Malaysia are closely studying how other countries, particularly Australia, have implemented similar regulations to ensure effective enforcement.
The Malaysian policy also requires social media platforms with over eight million users in the country to obtain licenses to operate. This is part of a broader framework introduced earlier this year to regulate digital content and safeguard online users. Platforms will need to comply with strict age verification measures to prevent underage access. The government stressed that the policy would involve collaboration with parents, educators, and social media companies to ensure children can navigate the digital world safely.
Australia has taken a similar approach, mandating that social media companies like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok remove users under 16 by December 10, 2025, or face fines. This decision reflects growing concerns over children’s mental health, online harassment, cyberbullying, and exposure to inappropriate content. The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has been working with platforms to ensure age verification systems are robust and effective. These measures also form part of a broader global trend, with New Zealand, European countries, and several Asian nations exploring restrictions and parental consent frameworks for underage social media use.
A recent survey by Ipsos Malaysia indicated that 72% of Malaysians support the government’s plan to restrict social media for children, showing strong public backing for protective measures. Experts note that early social media exposure can have lasting effects on a child’s mental health, sleep patterns, and social development. By enforcing age restrictions, both Malaysia and Australia aim to create safer digital spaces where children can engage online responsibly while minimizing risks.
Both countries’ initiatives also focus on raising awareness about responsible digital behavior. Alongside restrictions, educational campaigns are expected to encourage parents and guardians to monitor and guide children’s online activity. Authorities emphasise that the goal is not to limit learning or communication but to protect children from cybercrime, harmful content, and online exploitation.
These measures underline the global priority of child safety in digital spaces. Australia and Malaysia’s policies could serve as models for other nations seeking to balance children’s digital engagement with safety. By combining regulatory action, education, and parental involvement, both countries aim to promote healthy online habits and safeguard young users as social media continues to grow in influence
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