BPKN Supports Child Social Media Restrictions Policy

Jakarta — Indonesia’s National Consumer Protection Agency (BPKN) has expressed support for the social media use restriction policy for children proposed by the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi).

BPKN Chairman Mufti Mubarok characterised the policy as a strategic step in protecting children as digital consumers from various cyber risks.

“The BPKN views the social media restriction policy for children as an important preventive measure. Children need protection from the negative effects of excessive digital technology use, including risks to mental health, exposure to age-inappropriate content, and misuse of personal data,” Mufti said in a statement in Jakarta on Sunday.

Age-inappropriate content exposure, potential device addiction, and personal data exploitation risks are key concerns in consumer protection in the digital era. Therefore, the state must intervene through regulations that ensure the digital space becomes safer and healthier for young people.

BPKN believes the measure aligns with consumer protection principles, particularly in ensuring that digital platforms do not exploit vulnerable groups.

Additionally, restricting social media use is seen as important for promoting balance between digital activity and children’s social development in the physical world.

“Technology companies must ensure their platforms are oriented not only towards user growth but also towards the safety and welfare of children as users,” Mufti stated.

Furthermore, BPKN advocates for the policy to be accompanied by digital education for the public, including parents, teachers, and families, to guide children in using technology in a healthy and responsible manner.

“BPKN hopes that the social media restriction policy for children can be the first step in building a safer, healthier, and fairer digital space for all society, particularly young people as the nation’s future leaders,” Mufti concluded.