By Doreen Ling
KUCHING, Oct 19: Minister for Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Sarawak Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah has spoken out on the proposal to raise the minimum age for social media users to 16, stressing that proper guidance for young people is more important than imposing restrictions.
Speaking during the closing ceremony of Sarawak Youth Week 2025 in Bintulu today, which was live-streamed by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS), Abdul Karim said the issue surfaced amid a wave of recent cases of violence in schools.
“These include problems related to social media, and now there are even discussions about banning those under 16 from using social media. There have been many suggestions, but I hope such measures will not become reality because young people need proper guidance—guidance along the right path.
“This is where those involved in the industry must ensure that the harmful elements that can arise from social media are properly controlled,” he said.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg; Sarawak Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Datuk Amar Mohamad Asfia Awang Nassar; and Deputy Ministers for Youth, Sport and Entrepreneur Development Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu and Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat were also present.
On Friday (Oct 17), Free Malaysia Today reported that the Cabinet is considering raising the minimum age for social media users to 16, up from the previously proposed age of 13.
Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said the requirement would be implemented through a registration process using official identification documents such as the MyKad, passport or MyDigital ID. — DayakDaily
