Takedown of Self-harm and Suicidal Content on Social Media Channels

Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information whether the Ministry will consider banning access or implementing takedown requests for self-harm and suicidal content on social media channels, online messaging platforms and online game platforms.

The Government takes a serious view of harmful online content that may affect Singapore users' physical and mental well-being, including content relating to suicide and self-harm. Hence, we have introduced measures to mitigate Singapore users' exposure to such harmful online content.

Under the Broadcasting Act, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) can direct Social Media Services and App Distribution Services, also known as app stores, to disable access by Singapore users to content advocating or instructing on self-harm or suicide on social media services and apps, including gaming apps. Groups with very large memberships on social media services can also be used to propagate egregious content. Those that are open and enable online interactions for social purposes are no different from non-private communications. IMDA can, therefore, take the same actions against them under the Broadcasting Act.

For suicide and self-harm content shared via private messages, the IMDA's Code of Practice for designated Social Media Services requires them to provide easily accessible user reporting mechanisms throughout its service. If individuals encounter harmful private messages on these social media services, they could block the sender or report the sender to the service.

The digital landscape is constantly evolving. The Government will continue to update our regulatory efforts to promote safe and trusted online spaces.