KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia began enforcing age verification requirements for the registration and opening of social media accounts on Monday (June 1).
The move is being implemented in line with the enforcement of the Child Protection Code (CPC) and Risk Mitigation Code (RMC), which also began on Monday under the Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA) by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
Under the new regulations, individuals under the age of 16 are no longer allowed to open any social media accounts, while those who wish to register must submit official identification documents such as MyKad, passport or MyDigital ID to verify their age.
The requirement is not limited to new registrations, but existing account holders are also required to verify their identities to ensure they remain eligible to access the platforms according to the set criteria.
The implementation puts Malaysia in line with global trends in restricting access to social media, such as the ones implemented in Australia and Indonesia.
However, Malaysia's approach leveraged legislation on MyKad and the MyDigital ID system.
The two codes were developed through engagement since February.
Under the CPC, platform providers are required to adopt the safety by design principle.
The RMC, meanwhile, requires service providers to implement risk assessments, content governance and a labelling mechanism.
Service providers who fail to comply with the requirements under the RMC may face stern action, including fines or financial penalties of up to RM10 million.
Additionally, paid advertisements for goods or services will be allowed only if uploaded by advertisers or users whose identities have been verified based on official government documents.
The MCMC also requires platform providers to adjust their algorithms, including content recommendation systems, to reduce the risk of users being exposed to harmful material.
According to the commission, an implementation period will be given to all service providers. – Bernama
