Should Social Media Be Restricted for Children? Indonesia's Proposed Law Sparks Debate

Indonesia’s Push for Age Limit on Social Media Faces Mixed Reactions

The Indonesian government is considering a new law that would restrict access to social media for children, aiming to safeguard them from online dangers.

Parents and advocacy groups have largely welcomed the plan, though concerns about personal data protection have raised questions about the law’s implementation.

A Necessary Measure to Protect Children Online

According to Deputy Communications and Digital Minister Nezar Patria, the government has begun discussions on implementing an age limit based on a data protection impact assessment conducted by social media platforms.

This assessment identifies potential risks involved in exposing children to harmful online content and interactions.

Nezar emphasised that such a measure is essential for ensuring that children use technology responsibly, without falling victim to exploitation or becoming perpetrators themselves.

The new rule would require social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to stop users under the proposed age limit from logging in or face substantial fines.

Indonesia is also considering issuing a government regulation (PP) to expedite the law’s enactment, though details on enforcement remain under review.

Fears Over Privacy in Age Verification Process

While many agree that children should be shielded from harmful content, the method to enforce the age restrictions raises privacy concerns.

Some fear that age verification processes, such as requiring users to upload their identity details, could lead to potential data leaks.

Nenden Sekar Arum, executive director of the Southeast Asia Freedom of Expression Network, cautioned against compromising children’s digital rights in the pursuit of safety.

She stated,

"There should be a balance between protecting children and respecting their basic human rights as well as digital rights."

Social Media’s Role in Child Development

Despite the worries over online dangers, there is also recognition of the benefits social media can offer.

Hendar Putranto, a lecturer with a 13-year-old daughter, acknowledged that social platforms can be valuable tools for learning and social interaction.

He noted,

"If the accessed social media content is proper in terms of age and appropriateness, it may become a catalyst for psychological growth of children."

However, he stressed that any restrictions must be carefully designed to ensure they do not stifle freedom of information.

High Risk of Online Exploitation

The government has noted alarming trends in children’s online activity.

Indonesia’s Financial Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre has highlighted the vulnerability of young people, revealing that around 80,000 children under the age of 10 and over 196,000 individuals aged 11 to 19 have fallen victim to online gambling.

With approximately 89% of Indonesian children aged five and above using the internet, it is clear that the risk of exposure to dangerous content is high.

Calls for Better Digital Literacy and Safety Features

Child protection advocates argue that efforts to improve online safety should go beyond age restrictions.

Andy Ardian, national coordinator of Ecpat Indonesia, pointed out that social media platforms often become channels for harmful content, such as pornography and child trafficking networks.

He emphasised that the government must push digital platforms to implement more robust safety features and mechanisms.

Digital literacy also remains a key focus.

Both Nenden Sekar Arum and Andy Ardian called for greater initiatives to educate both parents and children about online risks and proper usage.

Ardian said,

“Imposing restrictions is a quick way to eliminate public anxiety, but it may not address the problem. It will be beneficial only if accompanied by efforts to ensure the children have sufficient knowledge and digital literacy.”

Public Support and Parental Concerns

Among the public, many parents support the idea of an age limit, fearing the easy access children have to inappropriate content.

Rizky Amalia, a homemaker and mother of a young child, expressed her worries.

She said,

“Social media is too open. All materials can be accessed easily, worrying us as parents.”

She suggested that 15 years old would be a suitable age for children to begin using social media, reflecting a common parental sentiment.

While the plan has been broadly welcomed, it faces significant challenges in balancing child protection with the risks to privacy and the right to access information.

As discussions continue, the government will need to address these concerns to ensure the law is both effective and fair.

US TikTok Ban and Trump's Intervention

Meanwhile, a US law banning TikTok took effect on 19 January after the app ceased functioning for American users.

The ban stemmed from national security concerns about TikTok's ties to China.

In response, TikTok users began migrating to platforms like Xiaohongshu, also known as RedNote.

However, President-elect Donald Trump has proposed a 90-day reprieve to negotiate a solution, including a potential 50% US ownership stake in TikTok to address security concerns.

TikTok has since begun restoring services, thanking Trump for his intervention and ensuring the platform's continued access for its millions of American users.