Malaysia implements SNS age verification; educators support, groups call for delay

Malaysia has launched a new age verification system for social media, prohibiting teenagers under 16 from registering accounts. While educators generally support this measure to protect youth, some civil groups argue it involves personal data and privacy issues, calling for a delay in implementation. Under the "Online Safety Act 2025," the "Child Protection Code" and "Risk Mitigation Code" took effect yesterday. The new system applies to licensed social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, requiring them to complete age verification measures within a maximum of six months. In Kuala Lumpur, where teenagers are frequently seen glued to their phones on public transport, the effectiveness of this ban remains to be seen. Many teachers and parents consider the intent of the new system good, but question whether it will be effective given how deeply smartphones are integrated into daily life. Many schools have already tightened mobile phone management, and educators hope this regulation will help reduce the impact of phones on students' learning and well-being. However, the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (FOMCA) has called for a delay, citing concerns over privacy and the need for a clearer, more transparent implementation framework.