Key facts
- Indonesia's new regulation prohibits children under 16 from holding accounts on high-risk social media platforms.
- The ban aims to protect young users from online harms including pornography, cyberbullying, scams, and addiction.
- Platforms must implement age verification, robust data safeguards, and enhanced parental controls.
- The policy affects an estimated 70 million children and adolescents in Indonesia.
- Teen influencers and content creators express concern about the ban's impact on their livelihoods.
Indonesia has initiated a significant policy restricting social media access for individuals under 16, a move aimed at safeguarding young users from a range of online dangers. The regulation, known as PP Tunas, prohibits children under this age from creating accounts on platforms deemed 'high-risk,' including major global services like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and X.
Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has framed the ban as a necessary response to a 'digital emergency,' citing concerns over exposure to pornography, violent content, cyberbullying, scams, and the addictive nature of algorithmic platforms. The government mandates that these platforms enhance age verification systems, protect children's data, and provide parents with greater control over their children's online activities.
The policy impacts a substantial youth population, with around 70 million children and adolescents in Indonesia. For many, social media and online gaming are integral to their social lives, learning, and even their economic activities as content creators. Teen influencer Charissa Putri Chandra Kirana, who earns a significant monthly income from her social media presence, expressed heartbreak over the ban, highlighting how it affects her ability to support her family.
Conversely, many parents, such as Andreas Humala, have welcomed the regulation, viewing it as a much-needed intervention that alleviates the burden of constantly monitoring their children's screen time and online interactions. However, challenges remain regarding the practical implementation of age verification, with concerns raised by education officials about potential identity falsification by teenagers seeking to circumvent the rules.