Raub: The Communications Ministry, through the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), is actively evaluating the most efficient mechanism to regulate online video games, amid rising concerns about user safety, particularly for children.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil stated that discussions with MCMC are ongoing, though no official decision has been reached as the matter remains under review. He expressed confidence that the Online Safety Act (OnSA), expected to be enforced early next year, will ensure a safer online environment, especially for children and families. Fahmi conveyed these insights while speaking to reporters at the Pahang-level Safe Internet Campaign (KIS) event at Sekolah Kebangsaan Raub Indah.
He further mentioned that the ministry is considering the licensing of at least ten types of online games, including ‘Roblox’, which is currently deemed inappropriate for children under 16. Fahmi emphasized the need to develop an effective regulatory framework and assured that efforts are underway, with an official announcement to be made in due course.
The minister also addressed a recent incident in Batu Pahat, where a six-year-old boy was injured by his nine-year-old brother, allegedly influenced by online gaming. He revealed that he had met with Roblox representatives, who were concerned about the incident. Fahmi personally decided to ban his children from playing Roblox and urged parents to closely supervise their children’s online activities.
Additionally, Fahmi noted that MCMC plans to summon the developer of the OMI app for discussions, following a case involving a 12-year-old girl who was allegedly mistreated by a man she encountered through the platform. Fahmi highlighted the importance of regulatory oversight for such apps to prevent future incidents. He also pointed out the challenges in restricting social media access for those under 16 and ensuring robust age verification and identity confirmation across platforms like Facebook and TikTok.