Authorities in Indonesia on Saturday began implementing a nationwide restriction that prohibits children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms, warning technology firms that compliance is mandatory.
Officials stressed that there would be strict enforcement, leaving no flexibility for companies operating within the country.
The policy, introduced earlier this month, is aimed at addressing rising concerns about the exposure of minors to harmful online content, including pornography, as well as issues such as cyberbullying and internet addiction.
The government says the measure is part of broader efforts to protect young users in the digital space.
Communications Minister Meutya Hafid stated that all social media platforms must adhere fully to the regulation or risk facing penalties. She noted that some companies have already taken steps to align with the new requirements, while others are expected to act without delay.
“We reiterate that there is no room for compromise regarding compliance,” she said, adding that all companies operating in Indonesia must follow national laws.
According to Hafid, platforms such as X and Bigo Live have adjusted their minimum user age to meet the new standard. Meanwhile, other tech firms have been urged to implement similar changes immediately.
TikTok said it is working with authorities and taking steps to address under-16 accounts as part of its compliance efforts.
Indonesia’s decision reflects a growing global trend toward tighter regulation of children’s access to social media. Several countries are exploring or enforcing similar policies in response to concerns about the impact of digital platforms on young users.
Australia rolled out comparable restrictions in December, while lawmakers in the United Kingdom have supported proposals that would limit minors’ access to social networks.
In the United States, the issue has also entered the legal arena, with a Los Angeles jury recently holding major platforms responsible for harm associated with the “addictive design” of their services.
These developments underscore mounting international pressure on technology companies, as governments consider stronger safeguards to better protect children online.
