The disturbing reality of digital predation against our children

 

From Syerleena Abdul Rashid

The recent “Op Pedo” by the police and Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission’s (MCMC), which resulted in the arrest of individuals from various socio-economic backgrounds for possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), has exposed a disturbing reality within our society.

While the police and MCMC deserve recognition for their swift action, this underscores a systemic failure in our digital regulatory framework.

The fact that the suspects were able to operate under false identities on platforms like X and Telegram, accessing and distributing explicit content with apparent ease, is a glaring indictment of the current state of online governance.

Communications minister Fahmi Fadzil’s proposal for a social media licensing framework is a step in the right direction, but it is insufficient. We must demand immediate and comprehensive reforms that hold these platforms accountable for the content they host.

The internet, once celebrated as a realm of limitless knowledge and connection, has become a dark playground for those seeking to exploit the innocence of children.

From predators lurking behind anonymous profiles to harmful content masquerading as entertainment, children are bombarded with dangers that threaten their safety and well-being.

Social media platforms, gaming communities and even educational apps have become gateways for cyberbullying, grooming and exposure to disturbing material. These attacks on innocence leave deep emotional scars, eroding their sense of safety and distorting their perception of the world.

The lack of accountability in digital spaces has allowed these horrors to flourish unchecked, making it clear that there is an urgent need to strengthen and ensure protection and safety of our children, by integrating clear regulations.

I call upon the government to implement stringent regulations that compel social media companies to prioritise user safety and actively prevent the dissemination of CSAM.

Furthermore, I urge all Malaysians to remain vigilant and report any suspicious online activities involving CSAM to the authorities. Protecting our children is not just a collective responsibility; it is a moral imperative that demands immediate and decisive action.

As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Be afraid of Allah, and be just to your children.” We cannot afford to be complacent while the innocence of our youth is at stake.

Striking a balance between internet freedom and safeguarding children remains a challenge for most but no one can deny its importance.

Therefore, it is our shared responsibility to ensure the digital age remains a place of opportunity and growth – not harm and exploitation. - FMT

Syerleena Abdul Rashid is the Bukit Bendera MP.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.