Indonesia has begun enforcing a nationwide ban on social media use for children under the age of 16, as authorities tighten regulations over concerns about online safety and digital wellbeing.
The policy, which took effect on Saturday, was introduced earlier this month amid growing fears about the impact of social media on young users, including exposure to pornography, cyberbullying and internet addiction.
Communications Minister Meutya Hafid said there would be strict compliance with the new rules, warning that no exceptions would be tolerated.
“We reiterate that there is no room for compromise regarding compliance, and that every business entity operating in Indonesia must adhere to the laws in force", she said.
According to the minister, some platforms, including X and Bigo Live, have already complied by adjusting their minimum user age requirements in line with the regulation.
Other platforms have been directed to quickly align their services and features with the new law.
TikTok also confirmed it is working closely with authorities to implement the changes, including taking steps to manage accounts belonging to users under 16.
Indonesia’s move reflects a broader global shift toward stricter regulation of social media use among minors.
Australia introduced a similar policy in December, while lawmakers in the United Kingdom are also considering restrictions following a recent parliamentary vote in favour of a ban.
In the United States, concerns have also intensified after a jury in Los Angeles found Meta and YouTube liable for harming a young woman through what was described as the “addictive design” of their platforms, awarding $6 million in damages.
The latest developments signal increasing global scrutiny of social media companies and their responsibility in protecting children online.
