PUTRAJAYA — Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the government is weighing a ban on smartphone use among students under 16 years old as part of a wider strategy to address a surge in violent incidents at national schools. Speaking after Friday prayers in Putrajaya, Mr Anwar said the Cabinet discussed the influence of social media and online gaming on aggressive behaviour among youth. “We find that the influence of social media, and also online games, leads to worrying behaviours,” he noted.
The Prime Minister added that the proposed measures also include tighter school security monitoring by the Home Ministry and the police, alongside the introduction of ethical educational content involving parents and Parent-Teacher Associations (PIBG).“First, it’s about safety; second, it’s social media; and third, it’s ethical educational content involving parents and the PIBG to help control their children,” Mr Anwar said, calling for complete cooperation from principals, teachers, and parents.
He emphasised that decisions regarding children and education must be made after careful consideration. “We must not take an immediate response. It must be very thorough,” Mr Anwar added. The discussion follows public outrage over a violent stabbing at a national school on Oct 14, in which a 14-year-old male student allegedly killed a 16-year-old female classmate outside a restroom using a weapon brought onto campus. The boy was remanded for seven days by the Petaling Jaya Magistrates’ Court to assist in investigations.
Mr Anwar said the Oct 17 Cabinet meeting extensively reviewed education and disciplinary challenges. “Some countries allow smartphone usage for those below 16 years old. But, I feel we must be strict on this matter,” he remarked. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek is expected to announce further details on the recommendations after Cabinet deliberations conclude.