[Post 1234] Why Malaysia Wants To Ban Social Media For Youths | Insight

Summary

Malaysia is set to introduce one of Southeast Asia’s toughest online safety measures: a ban on social media access for children under the age of 16. The move comes amid rising concerns over online grooming, cyberbullying, sexual exploitation, misinformation, and the addictive design of digital platforms targeting young users.

Increasing amounts of research show the adverse impact of social media on teenage brains and social development. Yet a ban may deprive young people of connection, self-expression, education, and advocacy. Or even drive them to riskier platforms. 

As Malaysia joins a growing list of countries rethinking youth access to social media, what is driving the policy — and will a blanket ban truly protect children in an increasingly digital world?