CSAM Is A Growing Issue In Malaysia. Here's What You Can Do As Parents
Your children need protection from harmful online content, now more than ever.
Published for Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, 27 Dec 2024, 12:18 PM
The internet is full of helpful resources that help us learn, connect with others, and stay entertained.
But on the other side of the coin, there are also may dangers with terrifying consequences, especially for children.
Among the most concerning issues is the rise of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), which includes any content that exploits or sexually abuses minors. The ease of accessing and sharing digital content has made children vulnerable to exploitation by predators.
Globally, CSAM has reached alarming levels, with Interpol revealing high numbers of online child exploitation cases in recent years. Many of these cases have been linked to growing internet penetration and unsupervised digital usage.
In Malaysia, the problem is just as bleak, as evidenced by increasing reports of cases involving such materials.
Locally, the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has taken a central role in combating CSAM under the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 (Act 588)
For those unfamiliar with the act, this legislation empowers MCMC to monitor online spaces, remove harmful content, and work with law enforcement to bring offenders to justice.
Through collaborations with international organisations, MCMC also tracks illegal activities that cross borders, ensuring Malaysia remains vigilant against this global problem.
But while government agencies like MCMC play a crucial role, parents have a crucial role to protect their children from these dangers
By staying informed and proactive, parents can create safer digital environments at home and instill critical awareness in their children.
1. Be involved in your child's online activities
Regularly check the apps, games, and websites your child uses, especially if they're very young. If they interact with friends online, make sure you know who they are at all times.
Set time limits and boundaries for online activities. Ask open-ended questions like, "What do you like about this app?" to encourage them to share.
When kids feel comfortable discussing their digital experiences, they're more likely to report anything unusual.
2. Teach them how to be safe online
Show your child how to keep personal information private, such as not sharing their location, school details, or photos. Also, teach them to say no to any requests from strangers, be it details about their address, invites to play games, or friend requests on social apps.
Practice scenarios together, like how to respond to a message from a stranger. Reinforce that they can always come to you if they feel unsafe or confused online.
If you're not sure about what to teach them, there are plenty of helpful videos on YouTube or TikTok that can help you get started.
3. Make use of parental controls
Activate built-in features like Google Family Link or Apple Screen Time to limit app usage, block explicit content, and track online activities. For additional control, apps like Net Nanny can alert you to suspicious behavior or content. These tools give you oversight without intruding on their independence.
4. Create a comfortable environment for sharing
It's important to let your children feel comfortable when talking to you about problems they face online.
Ask about their favourite online activities and listen without judgment.
When addressing issues, focus on problem-solving rather than punishment. Let them know it's completely okay to make mistakes and that you're there to help them stay safe.
5. Report harmful content immediately
If you encounter explicit material or predatory behavior, report it to MCMC through their complaint portal or hotline.
Acting quickly can protect your child and others from harm while supporting law enforcement efforts.
At the end of the day, it takes effort from all parties to keep children safe from the danger of CSAM
The MCMC, through its enforcement of Act 588, remains dedicated to making the internet a safer place for children.
By working with parents, educators, and international organisations, MCMC addresses the growing challenge of CSAM and other online threats.
Every parent has a vital role to play in creating a digital environment where children can explore, learn, and grow without fear.
For more information on MCMC's initiatives or to report suspicious material, visit MCMC's official website
