Gaming isn’t just play anymore. It’s a digital universe where kids learn, connect, and create. But as fun as Roblox or PUBG can be, not everything behind the screen is safe. Recent debates in Malaysia’s Parliament have sparked concern over child today being exposed to unsafe interactions, aggressive monetisation, and inappropriate content in the gaming industry.
The New Reality Of Online Gaming
According to the World Health Organisation, 34% of adolescents play digital games daily, and 12% show signs of problematic gaming, meaning they struggle to stop even when it negatively affects their lives. Clearly, the game needs new rules.
Content Forum Says: It’s Time To Press Start On Safety
Image via South China Morning Post
The Communications and Multimedia Content Forum of Malaysia (Content Forum) is stepping up, calling on developers and platforms to take an active role in protecting children online. Nicholas Sagau, President of the Malaysia Digital Association and Council member of the Content Forum said:
“Games can inspire creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving. But without proper guardrails, they can also expose young players to real risks,”.
Instead of waiting for regulation to catch up, the Forum believes the industry should lead the charge, designing games with responsibility in mind while empowering parents to guide their children safely through digital spaces.
Building A Safer Gaming Ecosystem, Together
The Content Forum’s latest initiative invites both local and international gaming companies to join its self-regulatory framework. The goal? To co-create a gaming environment that balances innovation with integrity.
The framework encourages collaboration in key areas like:
- Parental guidance tools that help adults set healthy boundaries.
- Age assurance systems that keep inappropriate content out of reach.
- Content moderation and ethical game design that prioritise player well-being.
As Mediha Mahmood, CEO of the Content Forum, put it:
“Self-regulation works best when the industry owns it. This is the perfect time for gaming companies to show leadership and earn players’ trust.”
Collaboration Is The Winning Strategy
Beyond industry efforts, online safety is everyone’s responsibility, from developers and educators to parents and policymakers. That’s why the Content Forum is launching stakeholder consultations to gather ideas from game creators, teachers, child-safety experts, and families.
By combining insights from all sides, Malaysia aims to shape a gaming landscape that’s both creative and safe, where children can learn and play without fear.
For gaming companies ready to take up the challenge, it’s game time. Not just to entertain, but to protect the next generation of digital explorers.
