Understanding IGRS: Indonesia's Game Rating System for Child Protection

In the rapidly evolving digital era, video games have become an inseparable part of Indonesian society's lifestyle, from children to adults. However, not all content in video games is suitable for consumption by all ages. To address this challenge, the Indonesian Government through the Ministry of Communication and Informatics (Kominfo) has introduced IGRS or the Indonesia Game Rating System.

This article will delve deeply into what IGRS is, how its classification system works, and why it is crucial for the digital ecosystem in the country.

IGRS (Indonesia Game Rating System) is an official classification system for interactive electronic games (games) in Indonesia. This system is designed to provide information to the public, especially parents, regarding the suitability of game content based on the user's age group.

The main legal basis for IGRS is Ministerial Regulation of Communication and Informatics No. 2 of 2024 on Game Classification (which updates the 2016 regulation). Through this regulation, every publisher, developer, or game distributor marketing their products in Indonesia is required to perform self-classification, which is then validated by the government.

IGRS is not merely a label sticker, but an instrument for protection and education. Here are its main functions:

IGRS divides game ratings into five main categories differentiated by colour and number:

In determining the rating, IGRS considers several sensitive aspects, including:

Although the IGRS system is already in operation, its effectiveness greatly depends on parental supervision. IGRS functions as a 'traffic light'. If a game is labelled 18+, parents are obliged to ensure that children under age do not play it. Collective awareness is important to prevent negative impacts such as game addiction or behavioural deviations due to age-inappropriate content.

IGRS is a forward step by the government in creating a healthy and safe digital ecosystem in Indonesia. With this standard, the national gaming industry is expected to grow more professionally, while consumers receive adequate protection. As users, always ensure you check the IGRS logo before purchasing or downloading games for your family.

Recently, Komdigi launched the Indonesia Game Rating System (IGRS), which is a game classification system aimed at protecting children from exposure that is not suitable for their age.