Indonesia is advancing regulatory measures to safeguard children as internet use continues to grow rapidly across the country. With millions of young users participating in the digital ecosystem, policymakers are seeking stronger protections against harmful online content and other digital risks. Speaking at a meeting with global technology companies, the Minister of Law highlighted the government’s responsibility to protect vulnerable groups while ensuring that digital transformation continues to support innovation and economic opportunity. Details of the discussion were reported by ANTARA News.
Growing Digital Use Among Young Indonesians
Indonesia’s expanding online population has prompted closer policy attention to child protection. Government data from 2025 indicates there are around 240 million active internet users nationwide, including approximately 70 million people under the age of 16.
This demographic shift has increased the urgency of building safeguards within the country’s digital environment. As explored in Indonesia’s multi-faceted measures to safeguard children online, authorities are combining regulation, industry engagement and digital literacy initiatives to reduce online risks faced by younger users.
New Social Media Restrictions for Under-16s
To address these concerns, the government has introduced a policy restricting access to social media platforms for children under the age of 16. The measure is set out in Minister of Communications and Digital Affairs Regulation No. 9 of 2026, which came into force on 28 March 2026.
“On the other hand, the government has a huge responsibility to ensure the protection of vulnerable groups, especially children,” — Supratman Andi Agtas, Minister of Law
According to the minister, the regulation is intended to limit children’s exposure to age-inappropriate content and reflects policy approaches adopted in other jurisdictions. The Ministry of Law plays a central role in drafting and supervising these rules, particularly as digital communication increasingly crosses national borders.
The new regulation complements broader national initiatives aimed at improving online child safety through stronger governance frameworks and cooperation with digital platforms, as discussed in Indonesia’s regulatory and platform-based efforts to strengthen child online safety.
Balancing Protection With Digital Economy Growth
Beyond safeguarding children, the government is also examining how regulatory frameworks can support a sustainable digital economy. During the meeting, Agtas raised the need for fair and transparent royalty distribution within the creative industry, particularly as content increasingly circulates through global digital platforms.
He also highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence in the media and creative sectors. Policymakers are exploring how AI adoption can deliver economic value while ensuring creators receive appropriate recognition and compensation.
“Indonesia is a large market with high potential, so it requires a shared commitment from industries,” — Supratman Andi Agtas, Minister of Law
Collaboration With Global Technology Companies
The meeting in Jakarta brought together representatives from major technology firms including Meta, Google, Apple and Salesforce, alongside the US–ASEAN Business Council. Discussions focused on strengthening international collaboration to develop regulatory approaches suited to the evolving digital landscape.
Marc Mealy, Executive Vice President of the US–ASEAN Business Council, joined representatives from Meta Indonesia and Google Indonesia in signalling industry willingness to cooperate with the government. Areas of collaboration include child protection, responsible digital governance and support for a sustainable creative economy.
Officials emphasised that continued dialogue between regulators and industry will be essential as Indonesia seeks to balance innovation, economic growth and stronger protections for young users in an increasingly connected society.
