KUALA LUMPUR: Stronger control over online content is needed to safeguard the younger generation from the negative impacts of unregulated digital exposure.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said social media and artificial intelligence (AI) could deeply influence emotions and behaviour if left unchecked.
“I don’t feel there is control of content. Other countries have control of content — it is filtered, and only then allowed to enter the country. It can be done. Technology is there.
“One of the steps to reduce this problem is content — control of content,” he said during the ‘Sarawak Agenda: Town Hall Session with the Premier of Sarawak’, held in conjunction with ‘Lan Berambeh Anak Sarawak 2025’ at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) here today (Oct 25).
Abang Johari explained that while AI can accelerate problem-solving by processing vast amounts of data, it lacks common sense — a quality unique to human intelligence.
He also voiced concern over the psychological effects of excessive exposure to social media and online entertainment, particularly among youths.
“The young are exposed — too much exposure to social media. If you are under 16 years old, some countries already control access. This is something we have to think over because it affects society,” he said.
Abang Johari stressed the need for trained psychologists to help manage emotional well-being in an era dominated by digital influence, noting that issues such as bullying and emotional distress often stem from the uncontrolled spread of online content.
