Malaysia Implements New Social Media Rules: Under-16s Banned

(CNA, Kuala Lumpur, 31st) Malaysia's new internet safety regulations went into effect today, requiring major social media platforms to verify user ages and banning account registration for minors under 16. Platforms must also strengthen content management, with violators facing fines of up to 10 million Malaysian Ringgit (approx. 79 million NTD). According to AFP, these regulations apply to platforms with over 8 million users in Malaysia, including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) stated that a 'grace period' will be provided for implementation, though no specific timeline was given. Under the new rules, users under 16 cannot register for accounts, and platforms are expected to implement age verification using government-issued IDs or passports. Furthermore, platforms must proactively take systematic measures to reduce the risk of harmful content. Australia became the first country to mandate such restrictions last December, followed by Indonesia in March, with similar measures being considered in Turkey and various European nations.