Fahmi Fadzil Says Government Is Reviewing Age Verification for Online Games

Malaysia is considering expanding electronic know-your-customer (eKYC) identity checks and age-verification requirements to online gaming platforms, including Roblox, as the government strengthens protections for younger internet users.

Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said the proposal would be assessed carefully, taking into account concerns involving underage users and the possible misuse of digital platforms by extremist or terrorist groups. He made the remarks in Kuala Lumpur on October 19 after discussing cooperation with digital platform operators.

Government Weighs Stronger Online Safeguards for Children

Fahmi said discussions with Roblox since last year indicated that the company was willing to cooperate, with user identity and age verification among the issues requiring further consideration.

The government is also monitoring potential platform misuse through the National Security Council, while the police and Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission could take action where necessary.

The proposal forms part of broader efforts to improve online safety as children increasingly use gaming services and other digital platforms. However, the government has not announced a final implementation plan or confirmed when any expanded requirements would take effect.

Fahmi also said he planned to discuss age restrictions for social media with Indonesian counterparts, recognising that both countries have their own regulatory frameworks. Such discussions could help Malaysia assess different approaches while balancing child protection, user privacy and practical enforcement.

Malaysia is reviewing whether eKYC and age verification should be extended to online gaming platforms such as Roblox.