Kuala lumpur: Malaysia today began enforcing age verification requirements for the registration and opening of social media accounts as a proactive measure to protect children under the age of 16 from cyber threats. The move is being implemented in line with the enforcement of the Child Protection Code (CPC) and Risk Mitigation Code (RMC), which also began today under the Online Safety Act 2025 (ONSA) by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, under the new regulations, individuals under the age of 16 are no longer allowed to open any social media accounts. Those wishing to register must submit official identification documents such as MyKad, passport, or MyDigital ID to verify their age. This requirement extends to existing account holders, who are also required to verify their identities to ensure continued eligibility to access the platforms.
The implementation aligns Malaysia with global trends, such as Australia, in restricting access to social media to protect young users. This follows Indonesia, which enforced similar regulations on March 28. Malaysia's approach includes leveraging specific legislation on MyKad and the MyDigital ID system, providing added security for authentic identity verification.
The MCMC has stated that enforcing both codes aims to strengthen the child protection ecosystem and requires digital platform providers to proactively address harmful content. The two codes were developed through engagement sessions and public consultations with stakeholders, including industry players and civil society organisations, since February.
Under the CPC, platform providers must adopt the safety by design principle, limiting functions that risk exposing children to threats such as cyber exploitation and inappropriate content. The RMC mandates service providers to implement risk assessments, stricter content governance, and a labeling mechanism for manipulated content to combat fraud and fake news. Service providers failing to comply may face fines or penalties up to RM10 million.
To curb online fraud, paid advertisements for goods or services will only be allowed if uploaded by verified advertisers or users. The MCMC also requires platform providers to adjust algorithms, including content recommendation systems, to minimize exposure to harmful material such as child sexual abuse material and financial scams.
The commission ensures a reasonable implementation period is given to all service providers, allowing the age verification system to integrate smoothly without compromising user privacy. ONSA, fully enforced on January 1, 2026, aims to ensure digital platform providers take greater responsibility for detecting, preventing, and swiftly responding to harmful online content.