Indonesia began enforcing nationwide restrictions on social media usage for children under 16 on Saturday, becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to grab this step. The move comes as concerns grow globally regarding cyberbullying and internet addiction.
New Regulations Target Popular Platforms
Approximately 70 million people in Indonesia are under the age of 16. The new policy initially targets users under 16 on platforms the Indonesian government deems “high-risk,” including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox. These platforms are expected to prevent access for underage users, potentially through account removal or deactivation.
Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid stated, “There is no compromise for compliance. Every business operating in Indonesia must comply with existing regulations.” X, Bigo Live, TikTok, and Roblox have reportedly made or announced changes to comply, with warnings issued regarding sanctions for non-compliance.
Concerns and Reactions
The policy follows a 2023 UN-backed study that found around half of Indonesian minors had encountered sexual images on social media, and nearly half had experienced online bullying. Indonesian officials have likewise cited an average of 7.5 hours of daily screen time among young people as a cause for concern.
Abbygael, a 13-year-old from West Kalimantan province, expressed concern that the restrictions would disrupt her daily routine, as she uses social media for information and entertainment. She suggested age-appropriate controls might be a better solution than an outright ban.
Usman Hamid, executive director of Amnesty International Indonesia, called the ban “an overly simplistic solution to a complex problem,” arguing that the focus should be on creating safer digital spaces rather than excluding children. He also emphasized the importance of including children’s voices in decisions regarding their digital access.
Parents, like Fransisca Angelina, a mother of two under-16 girls, have expressed uncertainty about the implementation of the ban, questioning its enforcement and potential for circumvention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What platforms are affected by the new policy?
The policy targets YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox.
How many children are affected by this ban?
Around 70 million people under the age of 16 in Indonesia are affected by the new restrictions.
What has been the reaction to the ban?
Reactions have been mixed, with some expressing concern about the disruption to daily life and the potential for circumvention, while others argue it is an overly simplistic solution.
As the policy takes effect, it remains to be seen how strictly it will be enforced and whether children will locate ways to bypass the restrictions.
