MDDI's Response to PQ on Preventing Children and Young Persons from Downloading Online Games that Contain Extreme Violent or Graphic Content

Parliament Sitting on 4 August 2026

Question for Oral Answer

*70. Ms Lee Hui Ying asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information in light of the Philippines' recent temporary ban on the online game GoreBox following a fatal school shooting (a) whether the Ministry will restrict or block access to the download of online games that contain extreme violent or graphic content; and (b) under what circumstances will such measures be considered to protect children and young persons.

Answer

The Code of Practice for Online Safety for App Distribution Services requires designated app stores - Apple App Store, Google Play Store, Huawei AppGallery, Microsoft Store, and Samsung Galaxy Store - to minimise the risk of users being exposed to harmful content. This includes measures to reduce the likelihood that users aged below 18 download apps designed for older age groups. These requirements apply to all apps, including gaming apps. In Singapore, among the designated app stores, Gore Box is only available on Google Play Store for users aged 18 and above.

In addition, under the Broadcasting Act, the Infocomm Media Development Authority can direct app stores to disable Singapore users' access to egregious content on their services. This includes content that advocates or instructs on violence, physical abuse or torture, and terrorism. These app stores include Google Play Store and Steam, a game distribution platform which applies a mature content label on Gore Box. We will continue to work with the app stores to tackle apps containing harmful or egregious content.

The gaming ecosystem is highly variegated. Beyond app stores, we are also studying further protections for children and young users for online games that are accessible on other platforms.

Regulations can only do so much. We also need to foster healthy digital habits among young users. The Ministry of Education's (MOE's) Cyber Wellness lessons for primary to pre-university students aim to develop empathy and respect for others, and guide them to be discerning users of technology. This includes managing their online gaming habits and recognising negative influences. Children and young users can also refer to the Positive Use Guide on Technology and Social Media, jointly developed by the Ministry of Digital Development and Information (MDDI), MOE and Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), for practical tips on staying safe online, including on gaming apps.

*Converted to written answer