RRI.CO.ID, Denpasar - The Indonesian government is strengthening child protection in the digital space by involving teachers as the frontline in preventing the risks children face online.

Through digital literacy education and Government Regulation (PP) No. 17/2025 on Electronic System Governance for Child Protection (PP TUNAS), the government aims to create a safer digital environment for the younger generation.

Communication and Digital Minister Meutya Hafid said children currently face multiple threats in the digital world, making support from teachers and parents increasingly important. “We hope teachers will help children recognize these risks and develop healthy digital habits,” Minister Meutya said while attending the Tunas Friends Forum, which gathered more than 900 teachers in Denpasar, Bali, on Thursday, July 1, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

She outlined seven main risks: internet addiction, contact with strangers, exposure to age-inappropriate content, commercial exploitation, personal data leaks, psychological disorders, and physical disorders caused by excessive use of digital devices.

Internet addiction, she noted, is among the biggest threats as it disrupts concentration in learning and influences behavior. Communication features on digital platforms can also be exploited by irresponsible parties to bully, deceive, or spread radical ideology.

Exposure to violent and pornographic content is considered harmful to the development of children’s character and values. Children are also vulnerable to commercial exploitation, as data on their interests and habits can be used by platforms for advertising and to encourage consumer behavior.

Previously, Minister Meutya emphasized that the TUNAS Regulation is not intended to restrict children’s internet access but to ensure safe and responsible use of digital technology.

She added that child protection cannot be achieved solely through regulation. Digital security education, personal data protection, and the ability to recognize threats must be integrated into school learning. ***