Fahmi urges unified Asean push to safeguard children online

BALI — Regional governments must prioritise coordinated efforts to combat emerging digital threats facing children, Malaysia's Foreign Minister stressed during discussions on child online safety in Bali.

Datuk Seri Zahid Hamidi emphasised that while Asean nations face differing regulatory frameworks and technological capabilities, the protection of minors in cyberspace demands a cohesive regional strategy. The call comes as digital platforms increasingly expose young users to risks including exploitation, cyberbullying, and inappropriate content across Southeast Asia.

The minister highlighted the need for member states to harmonise standards and share best practices in addressing online child safety. He noted that coordination among Asean countries would strengthen individual national efforts and create more effective safeguards across the region's interconnected digital landscape.

Asean governments have adopted varying approaches to child protection online, with some nations implementing stricter content regulations while others rely on industry self-regulation and parental controls. Fahmi's appeal underscores growing regional recognition that transnational digital threats require collaborative solutions rather than fragmented national responses.

The issue gains urgency as internet penetration deepens across Southeast Asia, with children comprising an increasingly significant proportion of digital users in the region.