Malaysia Considering Smartphone Ban for Students Aged 16 and Below

The Malaysian government is currently studying the possibility of banning smartphone use among students aged 16 and below, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced today. The move comes amid growing concerns about digital addiction, the negative influence of social media, and online gaming among Malaysian teenagers.

According to the Prime Minister, the proposed restriction aims to reduce juvenile misconduct while helping students refocus on academics and moral development. Before implementing such a ban, the government plans to review similar policies adopted by other countries that have already restricted smartphone usage among minors.

For now, students are still allowed to use smartphones, though Anwar hinted that the government is considering stricter measures moving forward. He also emphasized the importance of collaboration between parents, teachers, and school administrators in shaping students’ discipline and moral values. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek is expected to provide a more detailed briefing on the proposal soon.

If enforced, Malaysia’s policy would make it one of the strictest in the region, even compared to China, Vietnam, and Australia. In China, social media, streaming, and gaming platforms are required to include built-in time limits for students, while in Australia, apps like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are banned for users under 16.

The discussion comes in the wake of two high-profile incidents involving sexual assault and fatal violence among students over the past two weeks — cases that have sparked national debate on school safety, moral education, and digital influence.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Communications has proposed implementing an eKYC (electronic Know Your Customer) system for social media sign-ups to verify user age as part of immediate steps to protect minors online.