President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to restrict access to selected social media platforms for children under the age of 16, with the measure set to be fully implemented within the next year.

The announcement was made during a press briefing at the President’s Office, where the President outlined the government's efforts to address growing concerns surrounding online safety and youth wellbeing.

According to the President, the decision was driven by concerns over issues such as online grooming, cyberbullying, and exposure to content considered inconsistent with the country's Islamic values.

The measure is intended to strengthen protections for children while promoting a safer digital environment.

The President emphasized that the move does not represent a retreat from digital transformation or technological advancement.

Instead, it forms part of a broader strategy to support human development while ensuring young people are protected from emerging risks in an increasingly interconnected world.

He also reiterated the Administration's commitment to the Maldives 2.0 agenda, under which digitalisation initiatives are being accelerated across government institutions to improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

The President noted that greater digital integration can help reduce unnecessary human intervention in administrative processes and limit the influence of personal bias.

In addition to the planned social media restrictions, the President announced further measures aimed at reinforcing Islamic values within public spaces.

Arrangements are being made to facilitate daily prayers at sports facilities across the country, while new regulations are expected to be introduced in the coming months requiring sports activities to pause during prayer times.

The proposed measures form part of a wider government effort to balance technological progress with social and cultural priorities.