Malaysia Tightens SIM Card Rules: Parents Now Required to Register Prepaid Numbers for Teens
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 26 — Malaysia has implemented stricter regulations requiring parents or legal guardians to register prepaid SIM cards for teenagers aged between 12 and 17, in a move aimed at strengthening digital safety and protecting minors from misuse of mobile services.
Under the new rules introduced by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), children below 12 years old are not allowed to own or register prepaid SIM cards under any circumstances.
The regulation forms part of broader efforts to ensure that every mobile number in the country can be properly traced to a verified user.
Parents Must Be Present During Registration
The updated guidelines require parents or guardians to complete the SIM registration process in person, while the child must also be physically present.
Telecommunications providers will verify the parent’s identification details and record relevant information, including their contact number and relationship with the minor.
Once completed, the SIM card will be registered under the child’s name as the official user.
However, parents remain responsible for overseeing its usage.
This ensures better supervision and accountability.
Pre-Activated SIM Cards Strictly Prohibited
Authorities warned that prepaid SIM cards activated before official registration are illegal.
Consumers are advised not to use such SIM cards.
Activation will only occur after proper verification, typically within 12 hours.
This process ensures accurate identity tracking.
New Measures Aim to Improve Digital Security
The regulation is part of mandatory standards designed to protect consumers from scams, identity theft, and unauthorised SIM use.
MCMC said stricter enforcement is necessary due to the increasing number of fraud cases involving mobile numbers.
The move also ensures minors use telecommunications services responsibly.
Authorities believe the new rules will strengthen overall digital security in Malaysia.
-wilayah.com.my
