DPR Member Warns That Social Media Access Restrictions for Under-16s Must Not Impede Online Learning

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com — A member of the House of Representatives’ Commission I, TB Hasanuddin, reminded that the policy restricting social media access for children under 16 should not go so far as to restrict their access to learning resources in the digital space.

According to him, the implementation of the rule must be carried out carefully so that the goal of protecting children does not hamper access to useful information.

‘At its core, the implementation of this regulation requires collaboration and consistency. The rule must protect children, not restrict positive spaces for their development,’ Hasanuddin said when contacted on Sunday (8 March 2026).

One way is to require digital platforms to provide transparent, periodic reports.

According to Hasanuddin, the reports could include a list of platforms or educational services that remain accessible to all ages.

‘This is to ensure the digital learning space for children remains preserved,’ Hasanuddin explained.

Hasanuddin also proposed the existence of a public appeals mechanism in the content screening process.

This mechanism is needed to anticipate the possibility of wrong blocking of content that is actually positive or educational.

The PDIP politician also urged the government to consider the formation of an independent supervisory council to oversee the policy’s implementation.

According to him, the body could involve experts who understand content suitability, so the risk of over-blocking or platform non-compliance can be minimised.

‘There is a need to form an independent supervisory board. Its task is to oversee the content to prevent over-blocking or possible platform non-compliance. This requires experts who understand content suitability,’ he said.

Earlier reports indicated that the government, through the Ministry of Communications and Digital, issued a new policy related to the use of social media for children under 16.