Indonesia sets age limits on digital platforms to protect children

Communication and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid said Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Electronic System Governance for Child Protection, known as PP Tunas, will delay access to high‑risk platforms until age 16, while lower‑risk services will be available from age 13.

“Half of Indonesian children have been exposed to sexual content on the internet. This is a serious warning for all of us. Digital platforms must take responsibility for protecting children,” Hafid told a coordination meeting in Jakarta on Thursday.

She stressed that the regulation is not intended to restrict internet use, but to ensure age‑appropriate access.

“Even when the content itself is not problematic, excessive use of digital platforms can lead to addiction, which affects a child’s mental health and development,” she said.

Indonesia has one of the world’s largest online populations, with around 229 million internet users.

Hafid noted that nearly 80 percent of children are already connected, exposing them to significant risks.

UNICEF data show that about 50 percent of Indonesian children online have encountered sexual content, while 42 percent reported feeling fearful or uncomfortable due to their digital experiences.

Government figures also recorded around 1.45 million cases of online child exploitation.

The regulation identifies risks ranging from harmful content and predatory interactions to exploitation and addiction.

Its implementation will involve cross‑ministerial cooperation, including education, health, child protection, and law enforcement agencies.

PP Tunas is scheduled for full enforcement on March 28, 2026. Hafid acknowledged challenges in applying the rules nationwide but insisted that digital platforms operating in Indonesia must comply with local regulations.

Translator: Livia Kristianti, Raka Adji