Indonesia Begins Social Media Ban for Under-16s

Indonesia Begins Enforcing Social Media Ban for Under-16s Indonesia Begins Enforcing Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Indonesia Begins Enforcing Social Media Ban for Under-16s. Credit: Manila Standard.

Indonesia has begun enforcing a nationwide restriction on social media use for children under 16, with authorities warning that compliance is mandatory for all digital platforms.

The policy, which took effect on Saturday, was introduced to address growing concerns over children’s exposure to harmful online content, including pornography, cyberbullying, and internet addiction.

Communications Minister Meutya Hafid said at a press conference late Friday that digital platforms X (formerly Twitter) and Bigo Live had already complied by adjusting their minimum age requirements, while others were expected to follow without delay. 

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Indonesia Begins Enforcing Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Indonesia Communications Minister Meutya Hafid. Credit: The Senoir.

She stressed that there would be no exceptions, noting that all companies operating in the country must align with existing laws.

“We reiterate that there is no room for compromise regarding compliance, and that every business entity operating in Indonesia is required to adhere to the laws in force within the country.”

TikTok, in a statement, said it is working with authorities to implement the necessary changes, including measures affecting accounts held by users under 16.

The move places Indonesia among a growing number of countries tightening regulations around children’s access to social media, as global scrutiny on the impact of digital platforms on young users increases nationwide. 

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