Malaysia Weighs Child Safeguards for Online Games, Gaming Sub-Code Feedback Closes Oct 24

Malaysia is weighing new safeguards for children on online gaming platforms, and says any rules will be based on evidence and public feedback. Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil set out the approach in a written parliamentary reply on Monday, 19 October 2026, The Star reported, saying measures must be proportionate to the actual level of risk.

He was replying to Bandar Kuching MP Dr Kelvin Yii Lee Wuen, who asked whether social media age limits would be extended to gaming platforms with many young users.

What the regulators are studying

According to Fahmi, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia are looking at the risks of online games and what kind of regulation fits. The study covers:

• Child safety and how young players are protected.
• User interactions, such as chatting and messaging with strangers.
• Game features and content, including what is switched on by default.
• Existing safeguards that platforms already offer.

MCMC is also reviewing how other countries handle the issue. The findings will decide whether extra rules are needed.

A Gaming Sub-Code is already in consultation

Separately, The Star has reported on a proposed Gaming Sub-Code led by the Content Forum. Under it, games could be required to switch off higher-risk features by default on children's accounts, such as voice chat with strangers, direct messages from non-contacts and paid randomised rewards. Public consultation closes on 24 October, after which the code will be finalised and submitted to MCMC for registration. It is expected to take effect next year, subject to that registration.

Fahmi has also said the government will study whether electronic know-your-customer (eKYC) checks and age verification could be extended to platforms like Roblox, citing underage users and the risk of misuse by extremist groups. Speaking to reporters on 19 October, he said Roblox had shown it was ready to cooperate:

"So we will look into the suitability of expanding aspects of eKYC and age verification to platforms like Roblox." Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, Communications Minister, as reported by The Edge Malaysia

What this means for Malaysian readers

Parents get a clear date to act on: anyone who wants a say on the Gaming Sub-Code has until 24 October to send feedback. In the meantime, the features the code targets, such as open voice chat and loot-box style purchases, are worth checking on your child's account now.

For local game studios, app developers and businesses running online communities, this is a signal to plan ahead. Safer default settings, age checks and clear parental controls may soon be expected rather than optional, and building them in early is usually cheaper than adding them later.

Sources: The Star, "Public consultation to guide safeguards for young online gamers", 20 October 2026, and The Edge Malaysia, "Govt to study feasibility of eKYC, age verification for online gaming platforms like Roblox — Fahmi". Rewritten in our own words.