Australia became the first country to enforce a nationwide ban for under-16s in December 2025. — AFP
LAST December, Australia deactivated the social media accounts of under-16s, and other countries are debating similar measures.
How does Malaysia’s approach compare internationally, and what unique challenges might arise given Malaysia’s demographics and digital ecosystem?
Taylor’s University All Impact Lab education director Dr Joseph Malaluan Velarde says, as of now, it is best to not make comparisons as the ban is relatively new.
“Australia has just implemented the social media ban for under-16 accounts, and around the world, only a very few countries have toyed with the idea of banning social media. The European Union has a similar policy, to be implemented in 2026.
“In South-East Asia or even in Asia, it is remarkable that Malaysia might be the first country to have passed a landmark policy. To be honest, we can’t really tell how this will unfold. But by benchmarking against Australia’s recent experiences, similar challenges could be seen, especially in the implementation and enforcement stages.
"These measures could face legal scrutiny, especially when it is the digital companies that would be directly affected by compliance requirements and potential penalties,” Velarde says.
He adds that it is possible that some groups, such as youth organisations, may to challenge this provision, given that studies have shown that there is a significant number of social media users under the age of 16 in Malaysia.
“While there may be optimism around such measures, it is also worth recognising the practical challenges involved, as teenagers with access to their phones may still find ways to access social media sites. Harmful content can always get through the digital ecosystem unless strict enforcement is put into place by companies and the government.”
Universiti Teknologi Mara Child Law Centre chairman Prof Dr Nadzriah Ahmad says Malaysia can look to not just Australia but Singapore as well when it comes to implementing the ban. She says Singapore has built a comprehensive framework through its Codes of Practice (2023, 2025), which make platforms and app stores act as gatekeepers.
“For example, app stores must stop users under 18 from downloading adult apps. Singapore also introduced the Online Safety (Relief and Accountability) Bill, giving victims of online abuse clear avenues for redress.
“Drawing on these two jurisdictions, Malaysia can compare how each developed effective age verification tools to protect children from accessing harmful or adult content.
"Furthermore, comparing their approaches highlights best practices for protecting a child’s privacy and personal data. Both jurisdictions also offer different methods to strengthen safety controls, providing models for preventing children from accessing online platforms through alternative or backdoor means.”
The ban around the globe
In recent years, governments worldwide have grown increasingly concerned about the impact of social media on young people. Rising rates of anxiety, cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content have prompted policymakers to act.
Australia became the first country to enforce a nationwide ban for under-16s; according to Australian media, the country's prime minister Anthony Albanese said it was aimed to support young Australians and ease the pressure that can come from endless feeds and algorithms.
As he told the young people in a video message launching the social media ban: "Make the most of the school holidays coming up. Rather than spending it scrolling on your phone, start a new sport, learn a new instrument, or read that book that has been sitting there for some time on your shelf.
"And importantly, spend quality time with your friends and your family, face to face."
Australia's measure is part of a broader global movement to regulate digital platforms, balancing children’s safety with freedom of access.
> Australia: Australia enforced a nationwide ban on social media accounts for under-16s on Dec 10, 2025. Platforms must remove underaged accounts or face fines up to A$50mil (RM138mil).
> United Kingdom: The UK government is weighing an Australian-style ban. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has warned of risks like “endless scrolling” and anxiety. Ministers are studying Australia’s model before deciding.
> Spain: Spain has debated stricter age restrictions on social media, with proposals to ban accounts for children under 16 as part of broader child protection reforms.
> France: France already has a law requiring parental consent for under‑15s to use social media since 2023. Lawmakers are discussing raising the minimum age further and tightening parental consent rules.
> South Korea: South Korea has explored restrictions on minors’ access to social media, building on its existing curfews for online gaming. Policymakers are debating whether to extend similar protections to social media platforms.
