KUALA LUMPUR: The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has warned that social media age restrictions alone cannot protect children from online abuse and exploitation, calling for a broader, child-rights-based approach to digital safety.
Deputy representative of UNICEF Malaysia Sanja Saranovic said that while governments are right to tackle online child sexual exploitation, simply banning younger users from social media will not solve the problem.
“Many children will still find ways to go online, often through less regulated platforms, where it is harder to protect them and they will be less likely to seek help when something goes wrong,” she said in a statement on Friday.
The warning follows recent enforcement operations against child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in Malaysia, which underscore the scale and urgency of the threat to children in digital spaces.
In response, UNICEF welcomed the strong commitment by Malaysian authorities, including the Online Safety Act 2025 and efforts to hold digital platforms accountable.
Beyond the risks, Saranovic stressed that online access is not a luxury for many children, particularly those who are isolated, marginalised, or living with disabilities.
“Digital platforms provide vital opportunities for learning, connection, play and self-expression.
“Any measure to protect children must balance safety with their rights to participation, information and privacy,” she said.
The agency outlined key measures for a comprehensive approach to online safety, including stronger platform responsibility, age-appropriate designs, improved regulation and enforcement and support for parents, caregivers and schools.
“Platforms should redesign products with child safety in mind, provide safer reporting channels and regulators must be empowered to enforce systemic risk assessments and audits,” Saranovic added.
She also called on families, schools and communities to work together with regulators and platforms to create digital environments that are safe, inclusive and rights-respecting for every child.
UNICEF said it stands ready to collaborate with the government of Malaysia, regulators, industry partners, civil society, parents and young people to ensure children can safely learn, connect and thrive in the digital age.
