Indonesia's Communication and Digital Affairs Minister, Meutya Hafid, announced on Friday that the government has signed a regulation prohibiting children under the age of 16 from having accounts on high-risk digital platforms. These include YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Roblox, and the popular livestreaming site Bigo Live. With a population of approximately 285 million, the fourth-highest globally, this Southeast Asian nation represents a significant market for social networks.
Implementation will begin gradually from March 28, continuing until all platforms fulfill their compliance obligations. Hafid stated, "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." She added that the government is taking this step as the best effort amid a digital emergency to reclaim sovereignty over children's futures.
Some residents and parents in Jakarta welcomed the government's restrictions on social media access, particularly because children can gain unmonitored access through mobile phones. Marianah, 43, said, "I think it has been very worrying for minors, especially children. Because they have too much freedom with photos, videos, and everything. Some education is educational, but some is misleading. So we really need to sort through social media again." Others suggested that the government should also block other harmful websites, such as pornography and online gambling sites.
Earlier this week, Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs conducted a surprise inspection of Meta Platforms' Jakarta office over concerns about the handling of harmful content on its platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. The ministry stated that through this inspection, the minister issued a stern warning regarding Meta's low level of compliance with national regulations. TikTok and Meta did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Indonesia will be the first country in Southeast Asia to restrict children's access to social media.
Source: www.theguardian.com