Proponents of the new age verification mandate argue that it is a long-overdue measure to protect children in an increasingly dangerous digital landscape. By requiring platforms to verify the age of their users, the government is finally placing the burden of responsibility on tech giants that have long profited from massive user bases without adequate safeguards for minors. This policy is seen as a vital step in curbing the rise of cyberbullying, exposure to adult content, and the grooming of children by online predators.
Supporters emphasize that the use of MyKad as a verification tool provides a reliable and secure way to confirm identity, leveraging existing national infrastructure to ensure compliance. They argue that the risks of leaving social media platforms to self-regulate have become too high, as these companies often prioritize engagement metrics over the well-being of their youngest users. By setting a clear legal standard, the government is asserting its authority to protect the public interest and ensure that digital platforms operate within the bounds of national law.
Furthermore, advocates believe that this move will encourage parents to take a more active role in their children's digital lives, knowing that the platforms themselves are now legally obligated to enforce age restrictions. This creates a collaborative environment where government policy, corporate responsibility, and parental guidance work together to foster a healthier internet. For many, the minor inconvenience of a more rigorous registration process is a small price to pay for the significant reduction in harm that these measures are expected to deliver.