Malaysia reviews age restrictions for online gaming platforms

The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission is reviewing measures to extend age restrictions to online gaming platforms, such as Roblox, to enhance user safety and protect children.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil stated that the move follows concerns raised by former Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ayob Khan Madin, who warned that extremist groups may use these platforms to recruit children. According to Ayob, extremists may build friendly relationships with young users on gaming sites before inviting them to join private groups to learn about attacks.

The Minister noted that while negotiations with Roblox have shown a willingness to cooperate, current challenges involve user and age verification processes. The government is also monitoring these platforms through the National Security Council and is exploring the expansion of digital identity and age verification requirements to gaming platforms.