28/04/2026

LYFE TUESDAY | APR 28, 2026

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T HE move to set a minimum age of 16 for social media use should not be seen as limiting children’s digital access, but as a measure to educate and prepare them to navigate the online space safely and responsibly. Children’s Commissioner Associate Professor Dr Mohd Al Adib Samuri said the proposal is a key step in reducing early exposure to risks such as harmful content, cyberbullying, sexual exploitation and privacy breaches. He also suggested the government develop an enforcement model suited to Malaysia’s context, in line with children’s rights principles. “A sound policy protects children from harm while safeguarding their right to learn, grow and gradually engage in the digital world. “Different approaches may be needed based on age, risk level and type of platform. Higher-risk platforms can face stricter controls, but digital spaces focused on education, communication and self-development should remain accessible,” he told Bernama last Sunday. managing director and child psychologist Dr Noor Aishah Rosli said setting the minimum age at 16 is appropriate from a developmental perspective. At that age, individuals are generally more capable of abstract thinking and emotional regulation, enabling more mature online interactions. She said the age limit could help reduce risks among minors, including anxiety, depression, stress and social media addiction. “This could also encourage healthier relationships with family and peers through physical activities, rather than relying solely on online interaction,” she said. She also emphasised the need for Minimum age of 16 CPC International globally, Parkinson’s cases in Malaysia are projected to rise significantly, with estimates suggesting a five-fold increase by 2040 from around 20,000 cases recorded in 2018. This growing burden has driven stronger emphasis on awareness, early diagnosis and long-term care strategies. Earlier diagnosis, better outcomes Doctors note Parkinson’s extends beyond visible tremors, affecting movement, coordination and even mental wellbeing. Symptoms such as stiffness, slowness and balance issues often develop gradually, making early recognition critical. Delayed diagnosis remains a challenge, often due to stigma or lack of awareness and that early medical attention allows doctors to introduce treatment plans sooner and help patients manage symptoms more effectively over time. Beyond physical symptoms, patients also experience fatigue, difficulty concentrating and anxiety, which has become part of a more

The Malaysian government is currently considering implementing a

minimum age of 16 for social media use, following the footsteps of countries such as Australia. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN

Getting kids off social media

o Experts back balanced policy on limiting access to networking sites for under-16s

“We need clarity on how restrictions will be enforced and which platforms are involved. If access to one platform is blocked, young users may simply turn to others,” he said. Earlier, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission is still engaging with relevant stakeholders. He said the process will gather comprehensive feedback, address concerns and ensure the government’s goal of protecting children and families online is achieved. The social media age limit regulation is expected to be introduced as early as June.

Siraj proposed digital literacy education include modules on managing digital identity, cyber threats, device security, verifying information sources and understanding the benefits, risks and potential misuse of artificial intelligence. Parents-Teachers Association Consultative Council president Associate Professor Datuk Dr Mohamad Ali Hasan described the proposal as a progressive step towards ensuring a safer online environment. He urged the government to clearly outline how the policy will be implemented to ensure it achieves its intended goals. Safer online environment National

Digital literacy needed Meanwhile, Cyber Consumer Association president Siraj Jalil said the proposed age limit must be complemented by stronger digital literacy from an early stage of education. He said digital literacy is crucial, as the online environment is now an integral part of everyday life. “Without it, users may create content without regard for others’ sensitivities, misuse platform features and struggle to distinguish between accurate and false information,” he said. Malaysian

proper regulation and active parental involvement in allowing minors to own devices and access social media. “We cannot completely deny children the right to socialise as it is essential to developing social identity. While the government and platforms play a role, parents must also remain actively involved. “However, overly strict restrictions may lead to resistance, as young individuals tend to react negatively to excessive control. Parents should instead guide them towards beneficial content,” she added.

New advances in Parkinson’s care help patients regain independence PARKINSON’S disease has long been associated with tremors, but care in Malaysia has increasingly focused on helping patients maintain independence and quality of life through earlier intervention and advanced treatment options. As the second most common neurodegenerative condition holistic approach to care. When medication no longer works alone Medication remains the first line of treatment, particularly in the While not a cure, the treatment plays a key role in restoring function and confidence. Safer, more precise treatment

Parkinson’s cases in Malaysia are expected to rise to about 100,000 by 2040. – 123RFPIC

Concerns around brain surgery have remained common, but modern techniques have made procedures such as DBS more precise and minimally invasive. Neurosurgeons use advanced imaging tools such as MRI and CT scans to accurately target specific brain regions. The procedure typically involves a small incision and precise electrode placement, which reduces risks and improves outcomes, while the ability to adjust or reverse the treatment further enhances its safety profile. Parkinson’s management is also shifting towards a multidisciplinary approach, involving neurologists, neurosurgeons and other healthcare professionals working together. Patients undergo thorough assessments to determine suitability for advanced treatments, taking into account factors such as age, cognitive health and response to medication. Care does not end after treatment, as long-term follow-up allows doctors to adjust therapies as symptoms evolve, ensuring continued effectiveness. Improving life with Parkinson’s While Parkinson’s remains a lifelong condition, advances in treatment have reshaped the patient journey. With

early stages. However, many patients experience fluctuating responses over time, where the effectiveness of medication becomes less consistent. For suitable patients, advanced therapies such as Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) are introduced. This treatment delivers controlled electrical stimulation to targeted areas of the brain responsible for movement, helping to reduce symptoms such as tremors, rigidity and slowness. Unlike older surgical methods, DBS does not destroy brain tissue, but instead offers an adjustable and reversible approach that allows doctors to tailor treatment as the condition progresses. Doctors also note DBS has significantly improved daily life for selected patients. One case involved a patient in his late 50s who had lived with Parkinson’s for over a decade and struggled with basic tasks such as eating and dressing. After undergoing the procedure, the patient regained the ability to perform daily activities independently, returned to hobbies such as gardening and experienced improved sleep, reflecting findings that DBS could improve quality of life by up to 70% in suitable candidates.

better awareness, earlier diagnosis and evolving therapies such as DBS, patients are no longer defined by gradual decline alone. Instead, modern care focuses on preserving independence, improving daily function and supporting patients in living fuller, more active lives.

This article is contributed by Subang Jaya Medical Centre Consultant neurologist and physician Dr Phua Chun Seng and consultant neurosurgeon Dr Kalai Arasu Muthusamy @ Dr Kamal Azrin Abdullah (Dr Kalai).