Social media algorithms, often opaque and designed to keep users hooked, have become a serious threat to public safety and the development of children, said Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
“These digital platform algorithms act as a secret engine, ensuring users return repeatedly to the apps,” Fahmi told Bernama in a recent interview. “For children, who cannot regulate their own usage, the impact is even more severe. Adults may stop using a platform due to responsibilities, but children exposed to these algorithms risk mental health issues and addiction.”
Fahmi said his concerns grew after a briefing from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), which highlighted a sharp rise in crimes originating from social media, describing the figures as “horrifying.” The three most worrying areas, he noted, are sexual crimes against children, online scams, and internet gambling, all spread across multiple platforms.
He cited a Facebook group called “Awek Budak Sekolah,” reportedly comprising 30,000 to 40,000 members, which remained active despite clear evidence of sexual exploitation of children. Fahmi also mentioned public figures targeted by online fraud, including Prof Datuk Dr Muhaya Mohamad, whose name was used by hundreds of fake accounts to sell non-existent health products, forcing her to receive a warning from the Ministry of Health.
“Even after raising the issue, the fake accounts remain active, showing platforms’ failure to take decisive action,” he said.
Fahmi emphasized that ensuring online safety is not solely the government’s or PDRM’s responsibility—it also requires active parental involvement. “Parents play a critical role. Devices are not babysitters. Allowing children to spend hours on devices is extremely dangerous. These algorithms can addict them, distort their values, and jeopardize their future.”
He further warned about the global spread of false information and algorithmic manipulation, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI) to defame public figures, which has negatively influenced perceptions of national institutions in some countries.
While reiterating that the government does not intend to curb freedom of expression, in line with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s stance, Fahmi stressed that freedom should not be abused to spread slander or criminal content. “We are free to speak, but not to spread harmful lies that seriously damage society, the nation, and the world. That cannot be allowed,” he said.
