Indonesia has announced a new regulation that will restrict children under the age of 16 from using social media platforms. The move places the country among a growing number of nations introducing stricter digital safety measures for young internet users.
The policy was revealed by Meutya Hafid, who stated that the government will require platforms classified as “high-risk” to remove accounts belonging to users under 16 years old. The regulation is scheduled to come into effect on March 28 and is aimed at strengthening child protection in digital spaces.
Unlike similar regulations introduced in other countries, Indonesia’s decision also includes restrictions on certain online games. The widely popular platform Roblox has been included in the ban due to concerns related to child safety and online interactions within the game’s ecosystem.
Authorities believe that stricter controls are necessary to reduce risks such as exposure to inappropriate content, online exploitation, and excessive screen time among minors. By restricting access to these platforms, the government aims to create a safer digital environment for children.
The enforcement of the regulation will take place in phases. According to officials, the first stage will focus on major global platforms that attract a large number of young users. These include YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Roblox, and the Singapore-based live streaming service Bigo Live.
Under the new framework, digital platforms categorized as high-risk will be required to verify the age of users and remove accounts belonging to underage individuals. Companies that fail to comply with the rules could face regulatory penalties.
Indonesia’s decision reflects a broader global trend where governments are introducing stricter oversight of digital platforms used by children and teenagers. Policymakers in several countries have raised concerns about the impact of social media on mental health, privacy, and online safety for young users.
Supporters of the policy argue that stronger regulations are needed to protect children from potential harm online. However, critics have also raised questions about enforcement challenges and the role of parental supervision in managing children’s digital activities.
As the March 28 implementation date approaches, technology companies and platform operators are expected to review their policies and systems to comply with Indonesia’s new digital safety requirements.
