Indonesia to Block Social Media Access for Children Under 16, Minister Says

Indonesia will limit social media access for children under 16, its Communications and Digital Ministry announced on Friday. The move aims to reduce addiction, cyberbullying, and other online risks for minors. Starting March 28, accounts on high-risk platforms will be gradually deactivated for underage users. Platforms affected include TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and Roblox.

Minister Meutya Hafid said the government will implement the restriction through a ministerial regulation issued on Friday. She acknowledged that the change might cause discomfort for children and confusion for parents. The government emphasized that the restriction is necessary to protect minors from porn, cyberbullying, online fraud, and addiction. Hafid also said Indonesia will be the first non-Western country to enforce such rules.

Other countries have taken similar steps. Australia banned social media for under-16s in December. Spain announced a similar ban last month, while Malaysia will restrict access starting in 2026. Indonesia joins this global trend to ensure children’s online safety. Government officials stressed that the process will be gradual to allow platforms time to comply with regulations.

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The regulation’s detailed requirements for platforms have not been revealed yet. TikTok, Meta, and Roblox did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The ministry also said it will work with platforms to ensure all obligations are met. This step reflects the government’s focus on digital safety amid growing internet usage among children.

Internet use in Indonesia is widespread. A 2024 survey showed 79.5% of Indonesians use the internet. About 48% of children under 12 already access online platforms, and 87% of Gen Z users, aged 12 to 27, are active online. Authorities said the restrictions will help parents manage their children’s online exposure while protecting them from digital harms.