The stories shaping Malaysia, in focus.
Malaysia's Communications Ministry has confirmed that social media platforms must verify users are at least 16 years old using official identity documents, with the requirement enforced through the Child Protection Code and Online Safety Act 2025.
TikTok has agreed to settle three lawsuits filed by teenagers claiming the platform's design caused addiction and mental health problems. The move comes as thousands of similar cases continue against other major social media companies.
Tennessee's lawsuit against Meta entered jury deliberation phase this week, with prosecutors arguing the social media giant knowingly ignored internal research about Instagram's harmful effects on teenagers while prioritizing profit.
Negeri Sembilan police have launched an investigation into a TikTok video allegedly featuring political party statements touching on the state's royal institution, with 11 reports filed ahead of Saturday's state election.
Vietnam is considering sweeping digital restrictions for children under 16, including mandatory parental account registration and limits on gaming time, joining regional efforts to safeguard young users online.
A US federal appeals court has blocked a key provision of Texas's children's online safety law that required social media platforms to filter content promoting self-harm and other harmful conduct, citing federal liability shield protections.
Malaysia's Yayasan Dakwah Islamiah Malaysia has backed a government initiative to establish accreditation standards for Islamic preachers operating on social media, saying it will protect religious integrity online.
YouTube has appealed a groundbreaking verdict that held the platform liable for a young woman's social media addiction and mental health issues. The case could reshape how tech companies face accountability for platform design.
Japan's parliament has approved fresh regulations governing social media activity during elections, set to commence in March 2027. The framework addresses rising concerns about artificially generated smear campaigns that emerged during recent political contests.
Meta Platforms disclosed that four US states are demanding $1.4 trillion in penalties over allegations it designed social media platforms to addict youth. The August trial in Oakland will examine claims Meta violated consumer protection and children's privacy laws.
Malaysia's Communications Ministry is evaluating whether licensed social media platforms are meeting obligations under two new safety codes introduced June 1 under the Online Safety Act 2025, with discussions ongoing between regulators and platform providers.
Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned a Senate inquiry delay of amendments that would strengthen the eSafety Commissioner's enforcement powers against social media platforms breaching the child social media ban introduced in December.
Australia is tabling parliamentary legislation Monday to fortify its under-16 social media restriction and grant its internet regulator enhanced authority to pursue major technology companies through the courts for violations.
Australia is moving to strengthen its pioneering social media ban for children after evidence shows enforcement is struggling, with seven in ten underage users still maintaining accounts on major platforms.