PETALING JAYA: A blanket social media ban for all kids below 16, without proper safeguards and supporting measures, may only worsen anxiety and social isolation among children, say experts. Consultant paediatrician Datuk Dr Amar Singh HSS said the overall impact of a social media ban on children may vary heavily for certain groups. “For those who are more reserved or are from marginalised segments of society, social media can be a key support system. “Any social media ban would also create a vacuum, so how will this be filled? To resolve this, Dr Amar said parents must use the opportunity of a social media ban by cutting back on their own social media use and spending quality time with their children.

Source: The Star January 15, 2026 05:14 UTC