Indonesia Urges Teachers to Strengthen Digital Literacy as Child Online Safety Rules Take Effect
Indonesia is encouraging schools to strengthen digital literacy as new national rules on child online protection come into force. The initiative supports Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Electronic System Governance for Child Protection, known as PP Tunas, which took effect on 28 March 2026. Education authorities say teachers will play a central role in guiding students to use digital tools responsibly while supporting the wider policy objective of creating a safer online environment for children.
According to an official report, Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu’ti said digital learning programmes will continue alongside new safeguards aimed at protecting students online. The approach aligns with broader national efforts to expand digital education while ensuring appropriate oversight, as highlighted in initiatives aimed at accelerating Indonesia’s nationwide digital education drive.
Teachers positioned as key actors in digital literacy
The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education views teachers as central to implementing PP Tunas in the classroom. Schools are expected to integrate digital learning tools under teacher supervision so that technology supports educational outcomes rather than becoming a distraction.
“The public does not need to worry; we will ensure digital literacy programs in schools continue to run in parallel,” — Abdul Mu’ti, Primary and Secondary Education Minister
Mu’ti said schools will encourage balanced device use through a framework known as the “3S” principles: Screen Time, Screen Zoom and Screen Break. The approach promotes mindful engagement with digital devices while reminding students to take regular breaks from screens.
These digital habits will be reinforced through physical activities such as brain gym exercises and morning workouts, reflecting a broader effort to support students’ mental and physical well-being alongside digital skills development.
Broader cooperation needed for responsible technology use
Education officials emphasise that schools cannot address online safety alone. Parents, communities and other institutions are expected to work together to guide children in responsible technology use.
“At the end of the day, technology is a tool, but character is the steering wheel. It is our shared responsibility to ensure children grow into a generation that is both digitally capable and grounded in strong values,” — Abdul Mu’ti, Primary and Secondary Education Minister
The emphasis on responsible digital behaviour complements earlier government initiatives focused on safeguarding children online. Together, these measures combine policy oversight with education and awareness efforts.
New regulation increases oversight of digital platforms
PP Tunas places new obligations on digital platforms operating in Indonesia. Companies must filter harmful content, provide accessible reporting channels and respond promptly and transparently to reported violations.
“The government instructs all digital platforms operating in Indonesia to align their products, features and services with the applicable regulations,” — Meutya Hafid, Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs
Officials say that stronger digital literacy in schools will be essential to ensuring the regulation delivers its intended outcomes. By combining platform accountability with improved digital education, the government aims to protect children while supporting the continued use of technology in learning environments, including classroom tools such as smartboards and digital learning technologies.
