Minister backs Online Safety Act 2025 as more children face cyberbullying, online grooming

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By Amanda L

KUCHING, May 24: The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM) has voiced support for the Online Safety Act (ONSA) 2025, with Minister Dato Sri Nancy Shukri saying stronger measures are needed to protect children from growing online threats, including cyberbullying, sexual exploitation and grooming.

Speaking to reporters after officiating the Rhythm-Ritma Kehidupan Harmoni: Program Sihat Warga Emas here today, she said the legislation introduced under the Communications Ministry comes at a crucial time as more children are being exposed to harmful online activities.

She stressed that awareness among both children and parents is important, particularly in helping young users recognise cyberbullying and inappropriate online behaviour.

“We can now see more information being shared on social media about what constitutes bullying, including the words or actions involved. These are things children need to understand,” she said.

The minister noted that some children may suffer emotional distress after being bullied online without even realising they are victims of bullying.

She said the government’s goal is to ensure children can explore the digital space safely, confidently and in a healthy environment.

Nancy added that protecting children online requires cooperation from all parties, including government agencies, parents, communities and digital platform providers.

“This cannot be approached solely from the government side. The community also has an important role to play,” she said. — DayakDaily

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