Strong homes remain the best firewall against harmful online content

MALAYSIA’S new online safety regulations have triggered passionate debate. Supporters argue that age-verification requirements and restrictions on under-16 social media users are necessary to protect children from harmful online content. Meanwhile, critics warn about privacy concerns, enforcement challenges and possible overreach.

But amid the debate, an uncomfortable truth remains largely unspoken. The greatest threat facing our children may not be social media itself; it may be the gradual surrender of parental influence.