Communications Minister Urges Digital Platforms to Prioritise Algorithmic Accountability
Denpasar (ANTARA) – Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid has urged electronic system operators (PSEs) to prioritise transparency, accountability and platform responsibility in addressing issues related to algorithms.
“The internet has become an inseparable part of children’s daily lives,” Meutya said at Bali Tech Week (BTW) 2026 in Sanur, Denpasar, Bali, on Tuesday.
She noted that the internet now gives children opportunities to learn, communicate, express their creativity and discover a wider world beyond their immediate surroundings.
The Indonesian Government recognises the importance of ensuring that children’s access to digital spaces is safe, responsible and appropriate for each generation, while also expanding connectivity to every corner of the country.
“Some 235 million people in Indonesia are now connected to the internet, or around 82 per cent of the population. As connectivity continues to expand, our responsibility is also growing,” Meutya said.
She added that the Government is accelerating digital transformation through three main pillars: Connected, Growing and Protected (3T).
“Once again, connectivity must translate into growth. However, no matter how high the growth figures we achieve, they will not mean enough if we cannot protect people when they use digital platforms and services,” Meutya said.
Meutya also said that Indonesia and Malaysia had close ties, not only because of their geographical proximity but also through their cooperation in building a future for the next generation.
Malaysian Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, speaking at the same event, said algorithms had become a significant challenge in today’s digital era.
Fahmi said algorithms can lead social media users to see content tailored to their preferences. For example, after a user watches a cat video, their recommendations may be filled with similar content.
“Our greatest challenge is not just knowledge of artificial intelligence or companies, but also algorithms,” Fahmi said.
Fahmi said it was therefore important for governments to establish regulations to protect people and provide a safe digital space for all.
He praised the Indonesian Government’s move to impose age restrictions on social media users through Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic System Operators for Child Protection, known as PP Tunas, to create a safe, healthy and child-friendly digital space.
Malaysia has introduced restrictions for children under the age of 16 under the Online Safety Act (ONSA), which came into force this year.