Southeast Asia wants children off social media. Will it work?

Across Southeast Asia, governments are considering restricting social media access for children. Indonesia recently barred those under 16 from major platforms, citing concerns for their mental health and safety. Malaysia and the Philippines are contemplating similar measures. This trend reflects growing parental worries about the potential harms of social media, including exposure to inappropriate content and addictive behaviors. The restrictions aim to protect children from these perceived risks, although potential resentment from children is a concern for some parents. The movement is gaining momentum as governments align with parental concerns.