Social Media to Require Mobile Numbers: XLSMART Responds

XLSMART has confirmed its support for the discourse regarding the mandatory use of mobile phone numbers for social media registration, noting that the rule is intended to protect the public.

“Firstly, this will serve as protection for the community. If this is officially integrated, we expect that the numbers registered on social media are truly registered and well-validated numbers,” said Merza Fachys, Director & Chief Regulatory Officer of XLSMART, during the XLSMART 2026 Annual General Meeting press conference on Wednesday (20/06/2026).

XLSMART also plans to coordinate with relevant parties, namely the Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) and the Civil Registry Office (Dukcapil), once the regulation is enforced.

Merza also touched upon the registration of prepaid customers using biometrics. This regulation, which was introduced early this year, is expected to be fully implemented by next July. He explained that XLSMART is prepared to execute the process and hopes for a smooth transition.

Previously, during a meeting with Commission I of the House of Representatives (DPR), the Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, explained the plan for social media user registration via mobile numbers. She stated that the rule would make identities clearer and ensure users are held accountable for their uploaded content. The plan is currently being finalised by the ministry, including conducting public consultations.

“The goal is to ensure that when people enter social media, they are required to provide their telephone numbers so that their identity is clear, making them accountable for the content they publish,” Meutya explained on Monday (18/05/2026).