KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 — Digital literacy should take precedence over blanket restrictions on technology use, as teenagers need the knowledge, skills and confidence to navigate an increasingly complex online environment safely and responsibly, parents said.

Moms Village Asia founder and mother of two, Vatsala Nair Manoharan, said teenagers need more than restrictions. They require guidance on issues such as consent, cyberbullying, online predators, scams and healthy digital boundaries to use technology safely and confidently.

“Restricting access alone does not build resilience. Equipping young people with digital literacy, critical thinking, and support systems creates safer, more responsible online communities,” she said at a digital safety training organised by Tatler for Malaysian parents, in collaboration with Content Forum, Pocket of Pink, The Inner Lynk and TikTok, recently.

Parent of four, Su Yen Pang, shared a similar view, saying children should be guided to develop sound values and accountability rather than be shielded entirely from technology.

“Exclusion is not protection. Instead of shielding children entirely from technology, we should educate and empower them to navigate it responsibly.

“By guiding them to think critically, make wise decisions, and use social media with awareness, we prepare them for a future shaped by artificial intelligence (Al) and innovation,” Su said.

Echoing the sentiment, entrepreneur and mother of two, Elizabeth Thea, shared that her views on children’s use of social media had evolved after learning more about digital safety measures and the importance of open communication.

She said online safety is best achieved through education, empowerment and shared responsibility, adding that digital literacy and critical thinking are essential for helping young people navigate online spaces with confidence.

“While age-appropriate safeguards are important, young people also need opportunities to develop digital literacy, critical thinking, and resilience. By equipping parents, educators, and children with the right knowledge, tools, and support, we can help them navigate the digital world safely and confidently,” she said.

Sharing similar insights, Chief Operating Officer of Rizman Ruzaini, Nurida Suraya, said digital platforms have become an integral part of how young people learn, communicate and express themselves, making parental engagement increasingly important.

“What I found meaningful about features like TikTok’s Family Pairing is that it encourages parents and teens to communicate more openly and understand each other’s digital habits better.

“Sessions like this are also very important because they help raise awareness and encourage more honest conversations around online safety, digital wellbeing, and responsible social media use within families,” said.

Founder and Clinic Director of the Inner Lynk, Gianina Ginnie Kon, said fostering a sense of community is also an important aspect of supporting young people’s digital wellbeing.

“Having to have the sense of community, where they can meet people who have relevant or relatability with them when it comes to the things that they enjoy doing, like interests and also values,” she said.

The event concluded with a shared consensus among attendees that fostering open conversations and maintaining honest communication at home remain the most critical tools to help young users feel safe speaking up about cyberbullying, misinformation, or uncomfortable experiences they encounter online. — Bernama