Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has revealed that the government is considering a ban on smartphone use for students under the age of 16. The potential move is said to be part of efforts to address the recent increase in violent incidents at national schools.
Anwar said the proposal was discussed during a Cabinet meeting today on 17 October. “We find that the influence of social media, and also online games, leads to worrying behaviours,” he said.
Among the other measures discussed were tighter security monitoring at schools nationwide, which would involve the Home Ministry and the police. The Cabinet also proposed the creation of ethical educational content that actively involves parents and Parent-Teacher Associations (PIBGs) in guiding students’ behaviour.
“First, it’s about safety; second, it’s social media; and third, it’s ethical educational content involving parents and the PIBG to help control their children,” Anwar told reporters after performing Friday prayers at a surau in Putrajaya. He also emphasised that decisions concerning education and children must be made carefully.
Anwar further noted that while some countries permit smartphone use among those below 16, Malaysia should take a firmer stance on the matter to prevent negative behavioural influences among students. He noted that Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek will provide further details on the proposed measures soon.
On a somewhat related note, Comms Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced earlier this week that Malaysia is set to require eKYC (electronic Know Your Customer) verification for users of social media platforms. According to him, this would prevent children under 13 from creating accounts and help platforms enforce their community standards, while also mitigating issues like scams and harmful content.
(Source: The Star)
