Rising concerns over online safety for vulnerable groups, especially children

SHAH ALAM - As the digital landscape evolves, concerns over online safety, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, are growing.

According to United Nations Children's Fund (Unicef), over three children in 30 countries face cyberbullying, with one in five skipping school as a result.

Additionally, Unicef has stated that 80 per cent of children in 25 countries feel unsafe due to online sexual harassment or exploitation.

The increased reliance on online interactions since the Covid-19 pandemic has further exposed millions of children to such risks.

Crime analyst Shahul Hamid Abdul Rahim supports the government's approach to social media licencing, deeming it essential in light of the current situation.

He warned that if these issues were not addressed, the safety of vulnerable groups, especially children, will continue to decline.

While concrete data on the number of children involved in online sexual harassment in Malaysia is lacking, Shahul is confident that such incidents are occurring.

However, the stigma surrounding these issues often prevents parents from reporting them to authorities.

"I am certain these incidents have taken place, but parents may be reluctant to come forward due to the associated stigma.

"We can't let Malaysia become one of the countries cited in Unicef’s reports on child sexual harassment," he said when contacted by Sinar on Friday.

Shahul also stressed that social media licencing plays a crucial role in maintaining national harmony and preventing exposure to sensitive issues surrounding religion, royalty, and race (the 3Rs).

He clarified that the government’s actions are not aimed at restricting freedom of speech but at ensuring a safe online environment.

"However, any actions taken by the government must come with strict enforcement. Without strong enforcement, these measures will be ineffective," he added.

In a related matter, Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye highlighted the critical problems arising in the digital age, such as online scams, cyberbullying and identity theft.

He pointed out that online scams have become a significant issue in Malaysia, causing losses of approximately RM54 billion annually—equivalent to 3 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). "Cyberbullying through social media platforms and instant messaging apps is causing emotional and psychological distress, particularly among teenagers.

"Moreover, identity theft, where personal information is misused by criminals, is also a growing concern," Lee said.

Lee called for proactive measures to strengthen cybersecurity and protect users from online threats.

Reactions:

• Normah Jaafar, 62, retired civil servant: "Online safety, particularly involving vulnerable groups, needs government attention to prevent individuals from falling into dangerous situations."
• Nur Nisa Nasuha Abi Hussaini, 26, housewife: "I hope that with the enforcement of social media licencing, people can browse the internet and make purchases without fear of falling victim to online scams."
• Nizamuddin Salehuddin, 27, private sector employee: "Online safety isn't just about protecting against sexual harassment, scams and identity theft. It’s also about safeguarding the nation’s well-being and preventing 3R-related issues."
• Anis Adilah Abdul Halim, 27, private sector employee: "The government's decision to enforce social media licencing is crucial. Content on social media platforms is often too exposed and can easily influence users, especially children, who have yet to discern between good and bad content."