Malaysia Enforces Social Media Ban for Under-16 Users

Malaysia began enforcing a rule on 1 June 2026 that bars children below 16 years from owning social media accounts. The measure applies to major platforms with at least 8 million users in Malaysia and requires age-verification systems for account creation.

Age Verification Rules

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission has stated that users below 16 years cannot register on covered platforms. Platforms are expected to use government-issued records such as identity cards or passports for age verification.

Platforms and Penalties

The rule covers Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, which fall within the threshold of at least 8 million users in Malaysia. Companies that fail to comply may face penalties of up to 10 million Malaysian ringgit, which is about 2.5 million US dollars.

Online Safety Act 2025

The restriction forms part of Malaysia’s Online Safety Act 2025, which came into force on 1 January 2026. The law provides a framework for online safety measures, including platform compliance and user protection provisions.

Important Facts for Exams

• Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy in South-East Asia.
• The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission is the national regulator for communications and multimedia matters.
• Age-verification systems are used by digital platforms to confirm the age of users before account creation.
• Cyberbullying, financial scams, and child sexual abuse are among the online risks cited in child safety regulations.

Implementation Details

A grace period will be given to platforms for completing age-verification systems, but the duration has not been specified. Parents whose children bypass the law will not face penalties under the new rules.