Jakarta, March 5, 2026 – The Europe Today: The government of Indonesia has introduced new regulations restricting children’s access to high-risk digital platforms in a bid to curb online exploitation and exposure to harmful content amid growing internet use among minors.
Meutya Hafid said Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Electronic System Governance for Child Protection, commonly known as PP Tunas, will delay access to high-risk platforms until the age of 16, while lower-risk digital services will be accessible from the age of 13.
Speaking at a coordination meeting in Jakarta on Thursday, Hafid warned that the widespread exposure of children to harmful online material had become a serious concern.
“Half of Indonesian children have been exposed to sexual content on the internet. This is a serious warning for all of us. Digital platforms must take responsibility for protecting children,” she said.
The minister clarified that the regulation is not intended to limit internet usage but to ensure that children access digital platforms in an age-appropriate manner.
“Even when the content itself is not problematic, excessive use of digital platforms can lead to addiction, which affects a child’s mental health and development,” she added.
With approximately 229 million internet users, Indonesia has one of the world’s largest online populations. Hafid noted that nearly 80 percent of children in the country are already connected to the internet, exposing them to significant online risks.
Data from UNICEF indicates that about 50 percent of Indonesian children online have encountered sexual content, while 42 percent reported feeling fearful or uncomfortable due to their digital experiences.
Government figures also recorded around 1.45 million cases of online child exploitation, highlighting the urgency of stronger digital safety measures.
The regulation identifies a range of threats, including harmful content, predatory interactions, exploitation, and digital addiction. Its implementation will involve cooperation among several government sectors, including education, health, child protection, and law enforcement agencies.
The PP Tunas regulation is scheduled to be fully enforced starting March 28, 2026, with authorities acknowledging potential challenges in nationwide implementation. Hafid emphasized that all digital platforms operating in the country must comply with local regulations aimed at safeguarding children online.
