A document claiming to be an official order banning those under 16 from using smartphones in Malaysia went viral recently after circulating on WhatsApp.
The document, dated 20 October 2025, reportedly outlined the scope and implementation involving individuals aged 16 and below, along with their parents or guardians.
For illustration purposes only
The document has been confirmed to be fake
The Government Department mentioned in the document, which is titled ‘Order on the Prohibition of Smartphone Use for Individuals Under 16 Years Old,’ has since released a statement confirming it to be fake.
The document, which carried the Prime Minister’s Department’s (JPM) letterhead, falsely claimed that starting 1 January 2026, all individuals under 16 would be banned from owning, using, or accessing smartphones anywhere in Malaysia, BERNAMA reported.
According to Sinar Harian, JPM clarified that it has never issued any statement related to the matter.
JPM has since reminded the public that spreading false news or information is an offence under Section 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998.
“For everyone’s awareness, the department has never issued any statement on this matter. The public is urged to be responsible and to always check the accuracy of any information before sharing it with others to avoid confusion,” it said.
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Also read: Study: 71% of Malaysians Want Children Aged Below 14yo Banned from Using Social Media
