Poser over definition of social media as Malaysia blocks 16 and under from such platforms

Malaysia will be blocking those aged 16 and under from social media to protect children from online influences and content. But what exactly constitutes social media in the eyes of the Malaysian government?

If not clarified, the move may affect online gaming and possibly the wider gaming ecosystem in Malaysia.

Is Fortnite considered an online platform that could fall under “social media”? Can the same be said for Roblox, which is allegedly one reason why the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) and the government remain adamant about the ban, given its negative connotations?

What about esports titles like Valorant and League of Legends, both of which run on Riot Games-connected hubs with social networking features? How about free-to-play titles from MiHoyo – or even social websites dedicated to these games?

With so many launchers tied to different games, could these also be classified as social media tools in the wrong hands? The leeway is wide, and the ambiguity leaves room for interpretation – and misuse – by those higher up.

Above all, shouldn’t matters involving juveniles and social media be handled by parents, not the government? With the ban taking effect on Jan 1, 2026, the coming weeks may feel like a prelude to a dystopia that could have been avoided through better parenting.

Short beats

Eidos Montreal was working on a Legacy of Kain series reboot before the Embracer buyout.

Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund group will be buying 93 per cent of Electronic Arts through a proposed buyout.

Russia has blocked access to gaming platform Roblox, accusing it of distributing extremist materials and LGBT propaganda.

Scottish artist Fern “4nt1r34l” Hook – whose work had been used by Bungie for its upcoming game Marathon without permission – said the matter has been resolved to her satisfaction.

Romeo Is A Deadman, a new action game from punk rock-influenced studio Grasshopper Manufacture, will be released on Feb 11, 2026 for PC and consoles.

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, the legendary Hollywood actor best known for playing Shang Tsung in the 1995 Mortal Kombat film, has passed away. He was 75.

Kakuchopurei has published review videos on two December releases: Octopath Traveler 0 and Marvel Cosmic Invasion.

Games out this week

Metroid Prime 4 is a new first-person action-adventure shooter from Nintendo and Retro Studios, slated for Nintendo Switch 2. Players control bounty hunter Samus as she explores the planet Viewros, fighting space pirates and rivals while gaining new weapons, power-ups, and even a futuristic cycle for traversal.

Octopath Traveler 0 is a new Japanese role-playing game from Square Enix for PC and consoles. Players take on the role of the Ringbearer as they seek vengeance against the monarchs and lords who burned their village, while also rebuilding it. The game features HD-2D graphics and a turn-based battle system allowing up to eight party members.

Cloudheim is a PC-only fantasy action-adventure title from Noodle Cat Games, now in Early Access. Players explore the mysterious islands surrounding Cloudheim as custom warriors, fighting enemies, crafting weapons, building settlements, and teaming up in co-op with up to four players.

Marvel Cosmic Invasion is a new 2D beat-em-up from Tribute Games and Dotemu. Players pick two of 15 Marvel heroes – from Wolverine to Captain America – to fight Annihilus and his cosmic swarm across familiar Marvel Comics locations. Out for PC and consoles.

Routine is a new survival horror game by Lunar Software and Raw Fury for PC and consoles. Set on a lunar base, players uncover the mystery behind its decline while avoiding hostile robots and environmental hazards.