KUCHING: The government is intensifying efforts to address the growing risks faced by children and teenagers online.
This came following recent UNICEF data revealing that 83 per cent of Malaysian youths are exposed to online risks, with 40 per cent unaware of how to protect themselves on social media.
Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the statistics are alarming and require urgent, coordinated intervention from all stakeholders including government agencies, educators, and families.
“We are working closely with UNICEF. At the same time, several ministries including Health, Education, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), and the Digital Ministry are involved through the National Social Council to find comprehensive solutions,” she said.
She said this when met at the Kuching District Education Department’s Excellence Service Award programme, here today (Jul 13).
Nancy noted that while Malaysia does not yet have specific laws protecting children in the digital space, her ministry has been actively advocating online safety through nationwide awareness campaigns.
“We regularly visit schools to raise awareness among students, teachers, and parents. Many parents do not realise the dangers of exposing their children on social media, even if it is just for fun. This can lead to unintended harm,” she said.
She added the country will once again take part in the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in Geneva, where the country will present its progress and share future plans on strengthening online child protection.
She explained that the introduction of new laws falls under the jurisdiction of the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said but would require strong collaboration with the Digital Ministry and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).
“If we are tasked with initiating it, we are ready. But legal amendments must go through the proper channels. What is important is that we all work together to protect our children in today’s digital world,” she said.
