MY has no plans to set age limit for online access, says Fahmi

The Malaysian government has no plans to implement age restrictions for online access, communication minister Fahmi Fadzil reportedly said at a press conference yesterday (22 Jan).

Alternatively, the country would take on a more balanced approach when addressing online safety issues, specifically cases involving children, said Fahmi, reported Bernama. This includes taking into account the country's socio-cultural background and legal landscape. 

Meanwhile, Fahmi said that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) will continue to strengthen international ties with other regulatory bodies to address concerns of online crimes. 

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He added that legal actions taken by international regulatory bodies in tackling online crimes can act as guide for Malaysia, and that the ministry will continue to push for greater awareness of internet accessibility and online safety. The minister also highlighted the importance of educating users about basic safety measures to practice in the digital realm. 

On Tuesday (21 Jan), Fahmi reportedly launched the "Online safety campaign roadshow" in Kelantan, a ministry initiative through MCMC aimed at raising public awareness about online safety. 

The roadshow is set to be expanded across the country to discuss various topics, including safe online environments, licensing requirements for social media and internet messaging service providers, amendments made to the Multimedia and Communications Act 1988 and the new online safety bill. 

A+M has reached out to MCMC for more information. 

Across the border, the Singapore government is reportedly considering implementing a legislation which limits the use of social media access to protect young users. It comes after Australia recently passed a law in November last year, banning children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms. 

According to The Straits Times, the Singapore government is in talks with Australian counterparts and social media platforms to understand their views on the matter, said Rahayu Mahzam, minister of State for Digital Development and Information. 

In response to a question in parliament on the effectiveness of such bans, Mahzam reportedly stated that the objective of legislating age limits for social media access is to protect children and youth from its harms. She also added that Singapore shares the same objective with Australia and will continue studying the ban's effectiveness of mandating age limits. 

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