KUALA LUMPUR – A rise in alarming social incidents involving students in the previous year has increased parents’ concerns about their children’s safety, prompting the government to introduce a regulatory ‘sandbox’ pilot program starting from January 1.
The trial, a joint effort between the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and leading platforms, aims to evaluate current technical abilities and improve regulatory measures within a controlled environment prior to a nationwide implementation.
In contrast to Australia, which is progressing towards a complete ban for individuals under 16, Malaysia’s approach does not involve prohibition. Rather, the emphasis is on enhancing and making age verification systems more effective to guarantee strict implementation.
Supporting the cautious strategy, child clinical psychologist Dr Noor Aishah Rosli described it as a crucial long-term measure to shield youth from being inundated with damaging online material.
“We are not looking to contribute to the statistics regarding stress, anxiety, screen dependency, and children under 16 being exposed to unsuitable video content,” she said to Bernama.
The increasing prevalence of social media dependency among kids and teenagers is concerning. New research indicates that nine out of ten children currently possess social media profiles, spending an astonishing eight hours daily on sites such as TikTok and YouTube.
In addition, a 2020 UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund) study titled Our Lives Online found that 91 per cent of Malaysian teenagers between the ages of 13 and 17 use the internet every day, while 70 per cent have already come across damaging material online.
Noor Aishah explained that addressing this issue goes beyond governmental policies. She emphasized that legal measures will have a restricted effect unless there is active involvement from parents at home to supervise, direct, and promote digital awareness.
“The biggest risk is enacting a law without witnessing any genuine change in behavior. Children learn by observing and copying, rather than simply being instructed on what to do. If parents are always focused on their phones, children perceive this as standard and follow suit,” she explained.
“Parents should set an example through their own self-control. Demonstrate how to manage time spent on screens, and they will imitate you. Strong supervision begins within the family, naturally,” she concludes.
Building on the push for active approaches, National Futsal Fitness coach Syafique Faudzil advocates for structured sports as an effective counter to the passive influence of social media.
A sports science lecturer at Kolej Poly-Tech MARA is of the opinion that directing teenagers’ time towards sports can effectively foster discipline, the ability to set goals, and improved mental health.
“Reducing social media usage is not only about minimizing damage; it significantly improves athletic performance. By regaining those hours, you open up genuine chances for substantial, physical activities,” he stated.
Syafique pointed out that sports help build a more robust sense of self. By taking on specific roles, like being a team captain, and learning to manage frustration with a coach’s support, young individuals cultivate emotional strength and a distinct personal identity.
“This fosters genuine self-esteem and direction. It contrasts with the passive, algorithm-based experience found on social media,” he added.
In the end, he points out, this move away from digital reliance can enhance a teenager’s concentration and drive, improving results not just in sports but also in academic settings and other areas. – BERNAMA