New Regulation to Restrict Social Media Access for Minors in Indonesia
Indonesia has introduced a groundbreaking regulation that will prohibit children under the age of 16 from using high-risk digital platforms. The move was announced by Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid, who emphasized that the decision is aimed at protecting young users from various online dangers.
The regulation, which was signed by Hafid, will prevent children under 16 from creating accounts on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox. This measure is part of a broader effort to address the growing concerns about the impact of social media on children’s mental health and safety.
Implementation Timeline
The implementation of the regulation will begin gradually on March 28, with all platforms required to meet compliance obligations over time. Hafid explained that the government is taking this step to ensure that parents are not left to handle these challenges alone. She highlighted that children are increasingly exposed to threats such as pornography, cyberbullying, online fraud, and addiction.
“The basis is clear. Our children face increasingly real threats. From exposure to pornography, cyberbullying, online fraud, and most importantly addiction. The government is here so that parents no longer have to fight alone against the giant of algorithms,” Hafid stated.
She also acknowledged that the new regulation may cause some initial discomfort, as children might express their dissatisfaction, and parents could be unsure how to respond. However, she stressed that the government is committed to supporting families during this transition.
Regulatory Actions Against Tech Giants
In addition to the new regulation, Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs recently conducted a surprise inspection of Meta Platforms’ Jakarta office. The inspection was carried out due to concerns about how harmful content is managed on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
The ministry issued a stern warning to Meta regarding its low level of compliance with national regulations. This action reflects the government’s determination to enforce stricter oversight of digital platforms operating within the country.
Global Context and Impact
Indonesia is set to become the first country in Southeast Asia to implement such restrictions on social media access for minors. This move places the nation at the forefront of global efforts to protect children from the negative effects of digital platforms.
In Australia, similar measures were introduced in December 2025, where social media companies revoked access to approximately 4.7 million accounts linked to children. These actions highlight a growing international trend toward regulating online activities for younger users.
Responses from Tech Companies
The Associated Press has reached out to TikTok and Meta for comment on the new regulation but has yet to receive a response. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how these companies will adapt to the new rules and whether they will take steps to comply with Indonesian laws.
Conclusion
The new regulation marks a significant shift in how Indonesia approaches the issue of children’s online safety. By restricting access to high-risk platforms, the government aims to create a safer digital environment for young users. While challenges may arise during the implementation phase, the long-term goal is to protect children from the potential harms of social media and ensure a more secure future for them.
