ATSI Ready to Comply with Social Media Registration Rules Requiring Mobile Numbers

Indonesian Telecommunications Service Providers Association (ATSI) has stated it is ready to comply with social media registration requirements using mobile numbers, currently under review by the Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs (Kemkomdigi).

ATSI Secretary-General Merza Fachys said the association supports synchronising digital identities to protect Indonesian citizens. “All social media platforms must use mobile numbers if the government issues regulations. This will protect users and ensure valid data, leading to better synchronisation,” Merza said in a brief interview in Jakarta on Friday.

Merza noted this move is similar to biometric verification for new mobile number registrations, which the government is currently promoting and will become mandatory nationwide from 1 July 2026.

The government believes biometric verification in SIM card registration helps the telecom industry protect citizens from harmful crimes such as fraud, phishing, and identity theft.

In addition to protecting citizens, the technology also strengthens public trust in telecom providers.

“This is about discipline, mutual protection, and care. Why? So that customers’ phones are clearly identifiable as belonging to the rightful owners,” Merza said.

Previously reported, the government is reviewing a plan to require social media users to provide mobile numbers during account registration.

The proposal was outlined by Communications and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid during a working session with the House of Representatives’ Commission I at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta on Monday (18 May). Meutya stated the policy is currently in the public consultation phase.

“We are currently refining this through public consultation to ensure that social media users must provide their mobile numbers for clear identification,” said Minister Meutya.

She noted that currently, providing a mobile number when creating social media accounts is optional. Including a phone number makes users and their content accountable.

“Social media users become accountable for the content they post,” Meutya added.