Malaysia is set to prohibit social media use for individuals under 16 years old starting next year, following similar moves by Australia and several European countries. Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced that the cabinet has approved the measure as part of broader efforts to protect young people from cyberbullying, scams, and sexual harassment. The government plans to implement electronic age verification using ID cards or passports. Additionally, Malaysia will require major social media and messaging platforms with over eight million users to obtain licenses beginning in January. These platforms must comply with age verification, content safety, and transparency regulations. The initiative aligns Malaysia with global efforts to make the internet safer for children and families, while also tightening oversight of digital platforms.