Malaysia has barred individuals under the age of 16 from registering accounts on social media platforms as part of new measures aimed at protecting minors online.

The decision, announced by the country’s communications regulator on Monday, forms part of efforts to reduce children’s exposure to harmful content on digital platforms.

The Southeast Asian country joins a growing list of nations tightening rules around access to social media amid increasing concerns over online safety and child welfare.

From Monday, platforms including Meta’s Facebook and Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube will be required to verify users’ ages using government-issued identification, according to the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission.

The regulator warned that companies that fail to comply could face fines of up to 10 million ringgit (about US$2.5 million).

It stressed that the measure is not intended to restrict children’s access to the internet but to strengthen accountability among tech companies, parents, and guardians in protecting minors online.

Existing users under the age threshold will be subject to age verification checks over a six-month transition period.

Malaysia has in recent years increased scrutiny of social media companies following a rise in harmful online content, including material considered capable of inciting racial or religious tension, as well as criticism of the monarchy.