Indonesia Enforces Landmark Social Media Ban for Children Under 16

On March 28, 2026, Indonesia implemented a groundbreaking regulation that prohibits children under the age of 16 from accessing major social media platforms, including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X (formerly Twitter), Bigo Live, and Roblox. This policy, known as Government Regulation No. 17/2025 concerning Governance of Electronic Systems for Child Protection (PP Tunas), aims to shield approximately 70 million minors from online threats such as pornography, cyberbullying, and internet addiction.

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Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid emphasized that compliance with this regulation is mandatory for all digital platforms operating in Indonesia. As of the regulation's enforcement date, X and Bigo Live had already adjusted their minimum user age requirements to 16 and 18, respectively. TikTok announced it would take measures to deactivate accounts of users under 16, while Roblox is working on additional controls for younger users. Minister Hafid stated, “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.”

Channel News Asia - CNAIndonesia Begins Social Media Ban for Under-16sThe Straits TimesIndonesia enforces strict social media ban for under-16s, warns platforms ‘no compromise’Indonesia Appreciates X and Bigo Live for Child Protection ComplianceSouth China Morning PostBloombergIndonesia enforces social media ban for children under 16 as global pressure on platforms mounts

Indonesia's move follows similar actions taken by Australia, which introduced a social media ban for children in December 2025. The Indonesian government cited rising concerns over children's exposure to harmful online content, with a 2023 UN-backed study revealing that nearly half of Indonesian minors had encountered sexual images online and experienced bullying. The regulation reflects a broader global trend toward stricter regulations on digital platforms to protect young users.

Indonesia Social Media Ban: First In Southeast Asia To Restrict Kids’ AccessDW NewsIndonesia enforces strict social media ban for under-16s, warns platforms ‘no compromise’South China Morning PostSocial Media Ban IndonesiaBloomberg

While the regulation has garnered support for its intent to protect children, it has also faced criticism. Usman Hamid, Executive Director of Amnesty International Indonesia, argued that the policy is an overly simplistic solution to a complex issue, suggesting that age-appropriate controls would be more effective than a blanket ban. Parents and children have expressed concerns about the potential for minors to bypass restrictions using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and the implications for children's rights to access information and engage in public discourse.

Indonesia Social Media Ban: First In Southeast Asia To Restrict Kids’ Access

Minister Meutya Hafid has called on all digital platforms to align their services with the new regulations, stating, “This is certainly a task. But we must take steps to save our children.” Meanwhile, Google, the parent company of YouTube, expressed opposition to the blanket ban, arguing that it would deprive young users of existing parental controls and safety features. TikTok and Meta Platforms Inc. have committed to working with the government to ensure compliance while maintaining user safety.

The Straits Times

The Indonesian government plans to monitor compliance closely and has established an escalation mechanism for platforms that fail to meet the new requirements. As the regulation unfolds, the government will assess its effectiveness in reducing online harms to children and may consider further measures if necessary.

Indonesia Appreciates X and Bigo Live for Child Protection Compliance

• “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.” — Meutya Hafid, Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs

Indonesia Begins Social Media Ban for Under-16s

• “Protecting children is a shared responsibility, and compliance is essential for operating in Indonesia’s digital ecosystem,” — Meutya Hafid

Bloomberg

• “The focus should be on making digital spaces safer, not excluding children from them,” — Usman Hamid, Executive Director of Amnesty International Indonesia

Bloomberg

• “This is certainly a task. But we must take steps to save our children,” — Meutya Hafid

South China Morning Post

The enforcement of this regulation marks a significant step in Indonesia's efforts to create a safer digital environment for children, amidst ongoing debates about the balance between regulation and children's rights.

Indonesia Social Media Ban: First In Southeast Asia To Restrict Kids’ Access