RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Communication and Digital Affairs Ministry has officially restricted access to social media platforms through the issuance of Ministerial Regulation No. 9/2026, released on Friday, March 6, 2026.

Communication and Digital Affairs Minister, Meutya Hafid, explained that the regulation is a derivative of Government Regulation (PP) No. 17/2025. This policy, internally referred to as "PP Tunas," mandates the restriction of social media accounts for children under the age of 16.

The Minister conveyed that the move reflects the government's serious concern regarding the risks social media poses to minors. Notably, this policy establishes Indonesia as a pioneer among non-Western nations in implementing age-based restrictions on digital access.

“The government is suspending access for children under 16 on high-risk digital platforms, including social media and networking services. This makes Indonesia the first non-Western country to delay digital access for children based on age,” Minister Meutya said in an official statement in Jakarta on Friday, March 6, 2026.

She further emphasized that this policy is a vital step for the future of the nation’s next generation. As digital technology and accessibility continue to grow, they bring various threats and negative impacts that disproportionately affect children.

“The government is taking a significant step for the future of Indonesian children. The threats in the digital space, such as pornography, cyberbullying, online scams, and digital addiction, are becoming increasingly tangible,” she remarked.

Following the enactment of the regulation, the Ministry will promptly begin deactivating social media accounts belonging to minors. In addition to social media, online gaming platforms will also face restrictions for users under 16.

“The implementation phase will begin on March 28, 2026, at which point accounts for children under 16 on high-risk platforms will be deactivated. This rollout includes platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox,” concluded the Minister. (Annaila Azzahra/Bambang MBKA)