Pakistan, Nov. 24 -- Malaysia plans to bar users under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms starting next year, joining a growing list of countries tightening regulations to protect children online.

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil said on Sunday that the government is reviewing age-restriction measures used in Australia and other nations. He cited concerns over cyberbullying, financial scams, and child sexual abuse as key reasons for the move.

"We hope by next year that social media platforms will comply with the government's decision to bar those under the age of 16 from opening user accounts," he told reporters, as reported by local daily The Star.

The announcement comes amid global scrutiny over the effects of so...