Minister Urges Inclusive Implementation of Biometric SIM Registration

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs (Menkomdigi) Meutya Hafid has asked mobile operators to ensure that biometric-based SIM card registration can be carried out easily and inclusively, so that efforts to strengthen identity security through the process do not burden the public.

“We are entrusting you to ensure that the implementation of this policy (biometric SIM card registration) remains easy and inclusive for the public. Because the goal is to protect mobile users, not to complicate their lives or make things difficult for them,” said Meutya in Jakarta on Thursday.

Meutya said the system and technology used in the biometric registration process must make things easier for people from all walks of life, including persons with disabilities.

“I was very pleased to hear earlier that at several operator outlets there are special booths for those wearing hijabs or headscarves. So this is inclusive for everyone,” she said.

Beyond inclusivity, Meutya asked operators to maintain full compliance with the biometric SIM card registration policy by ensuring that no new customer registrations bypass the biometric verification process.

Meutya commended all mobile operators that have achieved full compliance with the policy’s implementation. She asked for supervision in the field to be continuously strengthened so that compliance is maintained across all regions of Indonesia.

Meutya also stressed the importance of protecting the public’s biometric data. She affirmed that mobile operators are not permitted to store customers’ biometric data, as the entire synchronisation process is carried out through the system of the Directorate General of Population and Civil Registration (Dukcapil).

Furthermore, Meutya asked operators to have measurable and transparent monitoring systems to oversee the implementation of biometric SIM card registration and to detect potential violations in the field.

She also encouraged stronger collaboration between the government, mobile operators, the Financial Services Authority (OJK), the Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre (PPATK), and other stakeholders to create a safe digital ecosystem.

“Public enthusiasm can be sustained through greater education and socialisation efforts going forward,” she said.