Malaysia has begun enforcing a new regulation that bans children under 16 from opening social media accounts, effective Monday. The rule requires platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to implement age verification systems and block underage accounts. Companies failing to comply could face fines of up to 10 million ringgit. Parents will not be penalized if children bypass the restriction. Authorities said the move aims to protect minors from harmful content, cyberbullying, and addiction risks.

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission stated that the policy seeks to make service providers more accountable and ensure age-appropriate safeguards, not to restrict children’s access to digital technology. Platforms must introduce “safety-by-design” features and curb manipulative designs that encourage excessive use. A grace period will be provided for implementing age verification systems.

The decision has drawn mixed reactions. Meta’s regional policy director warned the blanket ban could push teens toward unsafe online spaces, while academics raised privacy concerns over ID-based verification. Critics also questioned the law’s effectiveness, noting parents could still help children bypass the restrictions.