Communications Minister Urges Parents to Switch Off Children's Devices During Homecoming Holiday
The Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs (Menkomdigi) Meutya Hafid has emphasised that the momentum of the homecoming holiday and Lebaran break in 2026 must become a turning point for Indonesian families to break the chain of children’s dependency on gadgets. This step is described as a crucial preparation phase before the government officially implements strict rules protecting children in the digital space.
Meutya reminded parents that the massive use of technology to date has eroded the space for direct interaction. Therefore, she urged the public to take drastic measures during the journey home for the holiday.
“Use this holiday and homecoming moment to spend as much time as possible with family. Gadgets can be switched off for now or at least reduced,” said Meutya Hafid in Central Jakarta on Wednesday (11 March).
This instruction is not without strong justification. Meutya highlighted the implementation of Government Regulation (PP) Number 17 of 2025 on the Protection of the Management of Electronic Systems in Child Protection (PP Tunas), which will take effect on 28 March 2026.
The policy will strictly regulate social media access for children under 16 years of age. Meutya views the Lebaran holiday as the most appropriate time to make a persuasive transition at the family level before the regulation becomes legally binding.
“For children under 16 years old, we are also moving towards implementing a policy that will take effect on 28 March. From now on, perhaps they can start gradually practising stepping away from social media with parental guidance,” she insisted.
According to Meutya, the role of parents at this time is very crucial as the front line of digital literacy. Changes in technology usage patterns cannot happen instantly but require mental preparation from the smallest family circle.
The Lebaran holiday is seen as the best time to engage in heart-to-heart dialogue, explain the urgency of responsible digitalisation, and prepare children so they are not shocked when PP Tunas is fully enforced.
“Perhaps during this Lebaran holiday is a good time to speak heart to heart between parents and children to begin preparations,” added Meutya.
The Communications Ministry hopes that by switching off or reducing the use of electronic devices whilst gathering with relatives, children can once again experience the essence of genuine family bonding and strengthen emotional ties without the distraction of digital screens.