Online child safety: Govt considers mandatory user verification
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the move is crucial to protect children from becoming victims of online sexual predators.
He expressed concern over a recent case involving a social media influencer who allegedly sent obscene images to a 14-year-old girl.
"I'm deeply troubled by what happened — an influencer contacting a 14-year-old with lewd messages. This is something happening within our society.
"I worry because young children may not fully understand how to navigate social media safely. They look up to influencers, and sadly, some are accused of taking advantage of that trust... this is something I deeply regret," he said after the ministry's monthly assembly today.
Police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing into the case involving the influencer, who allegedly sent obscene messages to several individuals, including minors.
Fahmi also advised ministry staff to deactivate the social media accounts of their children under the age of 13 to prevent any unwanted incidents and to monitor their children's use of apps like WhatsApp.
Meanwhile, in his speech at the event, Fahmi said the Communications Ministry played a crucial role during the 46th Asean Summit, particularly in ensuring good internet access and coverage throughout the conference.
"I personally witnessed our efforts to ensure that internet connectivity, including 5G, at the International Media Centre was in excellent condition. Although some media reported WiFi issues — which were not under our purview — we took immediate action to assist.
"We helped by requesting the relevant parties to increase the number of access points to ease media operations," he said.
At the event, Fahmi also officiated the new name of the Communications Ministry's building — from Kompleks Kementerian Komunikasi to Menara Komunikasi — symbolising connectivity, technological strength, and the nation's aspirations toward progress in the field of communications.
Also present were Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa, and Bernama chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur-ul Afida Kamaludin.
-- BERNAMA
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