Malaysia's communications regulator activated a ban that blocks anyone under 16 from opening new accounts on platforms with more than eight million local users. The rule took effect on June 6, and companies that fail to enforce it could be fined up to 10 million ringgit (about $2.5 million). The policy targets major services such as Facebook, Instagram and TikTok, and enforcement will unfold over the next six months.

Under‑age users get a 30‑day window to download, transfer or delete data before accounts are restricted. Meta, which posted over $56 billion in revenue in Q1 2026, must now implement age verification for Malaysian residents. The firm plans to use age‑check tools to streamline compliance. Meta's policy chief warned the measure could push teens toward unregulated corners of the internet.

Indonesia introduced a similar under‑16 ban earlier this year, signaling a regional shift toward stricter digital age controls. Platforms that operate across borders now face a patchwork of compliance hurdles, and regulators in other markets are watching Malaysia's rollout for clues. The immediate effect is a tighter barrier for teenagers seeking mainstream social apps. Parents and schools are also urged to educate youths about digital safety.