Indonesia plans to introduce a minimum age limit for social media users to protect children online, with regulations being prepared by the Communications Ministry.
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| Indonesia's government prepares a new regulation to limit social media access for younger users, prioritizing child protection in the digital age. Image Courtesy: TJP |
Jakarta, Indonesia — January 15, 2025:
Indonesia is preparing to introduce regulations that will set a minimum age for social media use, aimed at better protecting children in the digital space. Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid confirmed the plan on Monday, though she did not specify what the age limit would be, reads a Jakarta Post report.
The regulation comes as part of the government’s broader effort to safeguard younger users in an increasingly digital world. Meutya discussed the initiative with President Prabowo Subianto, who expressed strong support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of child protection online. “We discussed how to protect children in the digital space,” Meutya said in a video posted on the president’s official YouTube channel.
Internet penetration in Indonesia, home to approximately 280 million people, reached 79.5% in 2024, according to a survey of 8,700 people by the Indonesia Internet Service Providers' Association. The survey revealed that 48% of children under 12 have access to the internet, with many using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Meanwhile, 87% of "Gen Z" users, aged 12 to 27, are also active online.
The move aligns with similar actions taken by other countries to protect younger users from online risks. In late 2023, Australia passed a landmark law banning social media companies from allowing users under 16 to sign up. The legislation mandates that social media firms take "reasonable steps" to prevent young teens from having accounts, with the law set to take effect in 2025.
Singapore has also explored implementing age limits for social media to safeguard youth online. Indonesia’s anticipated regulation adds to a growing global push for stronger digital protections for children and teenagers.