Indonesia will ban social media for children under 16, its communication and digital affairs minister announced on Friday. The regulation, signed by Minister Meutya Hafid, prohibits children under 16 from holding accounts on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Roblox, and Bigo Live. The ban will be implemented gradually from 28 March, with platforms required to comply fully.
Minister Hafid stated: 'Our children face increasingly real threats. From exposure to pornography, cyberbullying, online fraud, and most importantly addiction. The government is here so that parents no longer have to fight alone against the giant of algorithms.' She acknowledged that the regulation may cause initial discomfort but emphasised it is necessary to reclaim sovereignty over children's futures.
Some Jakarta residents welcomed the move. Marianah, 43, said: 'I think that it has been very worrying for minors, especially children. Because they have too much freedom with photos, videos and everything.' Others, like Harianto, 49, called for broader restrictions on harmful websites, including pornography and online gambling.
Earlier this week, Indonesia's ministry conducted a surprise inspection of Meta Platforms' Jakarta office over concerns about harmful content on Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. The ministry issued a stern warning regarding Meta's low compliance with national regulations. TikTok and Meta did not respond to requests for comment.
Indonesia becomes the first Southeast Asian country to restrict children's social media access, following Australia's similar ban in December 2025. Other nations, including Spain, France, and the UK, are also considering measures to protect minors online.
