KPAI emphasises the role of family and state in protecting children in the digital era

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Chair of the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI), Jafra Putra, has emphasised the importance of strengthening the roles of the state and families in protecting children in the digital era. Jafra stressed that, in addition to digital literacy at the family level, the state must also be present to provide protection for children from the risks of exposure to negative content in the digital space. “I think one important aspect is digital literacy at the family level, but on the other side, the role of the state must be able to protect Indonesian families,” Jafra said during a discussion held in Central Jakarta on Monday. He presented data on complaints received by the Indonesian Child Protection Commission throughout 2025, totalling 2,031 cases, of which 1,037 were related to family issues. Jafra assessed that this data reflects that the condition of children’s families in Indonesia still faces various challenges. According to him, protection of the family will have a direct impact on child protection. With strong families supported by appropriate policies, children can be protected from various risks in the digital space. “In the past (negative content risks) could be controlled through TV, screens, and so on, but with the entry of digital devices into children’s hands, many families ultimately complain about these situations,” Jafra stated. Jafra also highlighted various risks faced by children in the digital space, such as exposure to negative content, online bullying, and the potential for exploitation. He assessed that comprehensive prevention efforts need to be carried out through collaboration between families, communities, and the government. He hopes that the presence of government policies such as Government Regulation number 17 of 2025 on the Protection of Governance of Electronic Systems in Child Protection (PP Tunas) can strengthen child development protection. Furthermore, Jafra conveyed several strategic steps forward to strengthen child protection in the digital space. One of them is through strengthening digital education in the education curriculum. In addition, he also emphasised the importance of simplifying child-friendly complaint channels. Currently, there are various reporting channels provided by several ministries/institutions, so integration is needed to make it easier for children and parents to access. Jafra added that inclusive digital literacy campaigns also need to be continuously expanded, including encouraging active parental supervision so that families can more optimally accompany children in their digital activities. “We continue to carry out inclusive literacy campaigns for national campaigns on parental control, how parents can apply that so that our children, wherever they are, remain well protected,” he said.