In effect from 1 June 2026 — Child Protection Code is now enforceable
Malaysia · New Law

Malaysia Bans Under-16s From Social Media

Platforms must now verify age using MyKad or passport. Here's what every parent needs to know.

1 June 2026 · ArmorBee · Based on MCMC official guidance
16
Minimum age for social media
RM10M
Max fine per platform violation
6+
Major platforms covered
What the law says
The Child Protection Code — in plain language

Malaysia's Online Safety Act 2025 requires social media platforms to block account creation for anyone under 16, and verify existing users' ages using a government-issued ID — not just a birthday tick-box. It is binding law, not a guideline. Platforms that don't comply face fines up to RM10 million.

Which platforms are covered

Any platform with 8 million+ Malaysian users. Currently:

TikTok Instagram Facebook YouTube X (Twitter) Snapchat
Not yet covered: Gaming platforms (Roblox, Discord, Minecraft) are not classified as social media under the current code. MCMC says gaming platforms are next — but for now parental controls inside those apps are your main tool.
What to do right now
Parent checklist — do this tonight
  1. 1Search your child's name and nickname on TikTok and Instagram — check for accounts you don't know about.
  2. 2Talk to them before platforms send verification prompts — make it a calm conversation, not a shock.
  3. 3If they're under 16, decide together whether to verify (parental consent) or transition off the platform.
  4. 4Download the free Selamat app from MCMC — covers screen time, content filtering and location alerts.
What happens to existing accounts
The verification rollout

Platforms will send in-app prompts asking users to verify age using MyKad or passport. Accounts that cannot confirm the user is 16+ may be suspended or restricted. MCMC is finalising timelines with each platform — your child could receive a prompt in the coming days or weeks.

MCMC Enforcement Details Latest News Safety Advice
Common questions
What if my child is already using these platforms?
Platforms are giving a grace period to verify existing accounts. Accounts that can't confirm they're 16+ may be suspended. Talk to your child now so they're not caught off guard when the verification prompt arrives.
Can under-16s just lie about their age again?
The law requires identity document verification — MyKad or passport — not just a birthday tick-box. This is significantly harder to bypass than previous age checks, though no system is completely foolproof.
What about Roblox, Discord and gaming apps?
Gaming platforms are not yet covered under the current code. MCMC has signalled they are in discussions with gaming platforms separately. For now, use the parental controls inside each app and check your child's friend lists regularly.
What can I do if a platform doesn't comply?
Report non-compliance to MCMC via aduan.mcmc.gov.my or call 1800-88-9292. MCMC has the power to issue compliance notices and enforce fines up to RM10 million per violation.
Sources
Child Protection Code Under The Online Safety Act 2025 — The Malaysian Reserve MCMC cracks down on harmful content with 2 Online Safety Act codes — Free Malaysia Today Under-16 Social Media Ban: Malaysians must verify age using MyKad or passport — SoyaCincau Malaysia to enforce social media age verification starting 1 June 2026 — TechNave