In a move to protect minors from potential online harm, both Australia and Malaysia have taken steps to implement a ban on children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms. The decision comes as concerns over the impact of social media on young users continue to grow globally.
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Australia, which will enforce the ban starting from December 10, has mandated that social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok must remove users under the age of 16 or face significant fines. This move is part of the country’s efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of young individuals in the digital space.
Snapchat, a popular social media platform among teenagers, has already begun asking teenage Australians to verify their ages. The company stated that users will be required to confirm their age to continue accessing the platform. This proactive approach by Snapchat aligns with the upcoming regulations in Australia and demonstrates a commitment to compliance with the new laws.
In a similar vein, Malaysia has announced its intention to follow Australia’s lead by implementing a social media ban for children under 16. The Malaysian government is closely monitoring the Australian government’s social media reforms and plans to introduce similar measures in the near future. While specific details of Malaysia’s ban are yet to be revealed, the decision reflects a growing trend among countries to address the challenges posed by underage social media use.
The move to restrict social media access for minors has sparked debates on the balance between protecting children and ensuring their freedom of expression and access to information. Proponents of the ban argue that it is necessary to shield young users from harmful content and online predators. On the other hand, critics raise concerns about the potential impact on children’s social interactions and educational opportunities in an increasingly digital world.
As countries like Australia and Malaysia take steps to regulate underage social media use, the global community is closely watching the outcomes and implications of these decisions. The enforcement of such bans raises questions about the role of technology companies in safeguarding minors online and the broader societal responsibility to promote digital literacy and online safety for young users.
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References:
1. https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/australasia/article/3333875/snapchat-makes-australian-teens-verify-age-social-media-ban-looms?utm_source=rss_feed
2. https://www.nytimes.com/2025/11/24/world/asia/malaysia-social-media-ban.html
3. https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/singapore-deports-australian-man-over-ariana-grande-incident-9685669
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