The Indonesian Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) has criticized platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp for failing to comply with regulations on removing harmful content aimed at children.

This is required under Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025, known as PP TUNAS, which mandates content filtering, clear reporting mechanisms, and timely responses.

Minister Meutya Hafid highlighted that some platforms still allow problematic content such as online gambling ads.

Hafid said, “The government has requested the removal of such content, but the platforms have yet to comply.”

Rather than blocking access entirely, the government aims to limit children’s exposure while preserving adult users’ freedom.

🔗 Source: Katadata

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ Indonesia pioneers child protection regulations among developing nations

Indonesia has positioned itself as a regulatory leader in the Global South with Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 (PP TUNAS), becoming the first developing nation to adopt binding age-appropriate design regulation for digital platforms 1.

This regulatory framework introduces comprehensive measures including mandatory risk assessments, parental consent requirements, and strict prohibitions against data profiling of children under 18 2.

The approach aligns with Indonesia’s longstanding commitment to child protection, building upon the foundation established by Law No. 23 of 2002 which created the national framework for protecting children’s rights 3.

By introducing SAMAN (Content Moderation Compliance System) to monitor platform adherence, Indonesia is creating accountability mechanisms that could become a model for other developing nations facing similar challenges with global tech platforms.

Indonesia’s two-year transition period for platforms to comply reflects a pragmatic approach that acknowledges implementation challenges while maintaining regulatory pressure 4.

2️⃣ Strong public support exists despite skepticism about effectiveness

Recent YouGov polling reveals that 84% of Indonesian parents support government regulation of social media for children under 17, driven by concerns about inappropriate content, addiction, and mental health impacts 5.

However, the same polling shows only half of parents believe these regulations will effectively limit children’s online activities, highlighting the challenge of enforcement 5.

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