Kuala lumpur: Social media algorithms that are designed to keep users habitually engaged are increasingly becoming a significant threat to public safety and children's development, according to Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fahmi emphasized the dangers these algorithms pose, particularly to children who lack the ability to regulate their own usage. He explained that these digital platform algorithms act as a 'secret sauce' to ensure users consistently return to the applications, which can lead to addiction, especially among young users. Fahmi pointed out that while adults may have the capacity to disconnect due to responsibilities, children are more vulnerable to these manipulative designs, potentially impacting their mental development.
In a recent interview conducted by Editor-in-Chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, along with Acting Deputy Editor-in-Chief of News Services Mohd Shukri Ishak and Executive Editor of Economic Services M. Saraswathi, Fahmi shared his concerns, which have grown following a briefing from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM). The briefing highlighted a concerning increase in crimes originating from social media platforms, including sexual crimes against children, scams, and online gambling.
Fahmi drew attention to a specific case involving a Facebook group called 'Awek Budak Sekolah,' which reportedly had between 30,000 and 40,000 members and was involved in the sexual exploitation of children. Despite the group's clear violations, it was allowed to operate, raising questions about the platform's enforcement policies.
Additionally, Fahmi mentioned the issue of online fraud affecting public figures, such as Prof Datuk Dr Muhaya Mohamad, whose identity was misused by hundreds of fake accounts to sell counterfeit health products. Despite raising the issue, these fraudulent accounts remain active, highlighting the platforms' shortcomings in addressing such challenges.
Fahmi stressed that the responsibility of ensuring internet safety should not fall solely on the government or PDRM but also requires active participation from parents. He urged parents to remain vigilant regarding their children's online activities, warning that excessive screen time and exposure to harmful algorithms could corrupt children's moral values and endanger their future.
On a broader scale, Fahmi addressed global concerns about the spread of misinformation and the manipulative power of algorithms, which have negatively influenced public perceptions of national institutions. He reiterated the government's commitment to preserving freedom of expression, aligning with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's policy against prosecuting critics, but emphasized that this freedom should not be misused to propagate slander or criminal content.