Indonesia is poised to implement comprehensive digital child protection measures, signaling a significant shift in online safety regulations. The Communications and Digital Ministry, led by Minister Meutya Hafid, is preparing interim guidelines to safeguard children in digital spaces while developing a more robust age-restriction law. This initiative follows Australia's landmark decision to ban social media access for users under 16, positioning Indonesia at the forefront of global efforts to protect young internet users.

The proposed regulations stem from alarming internet usage statistics that highlight the urgent need for digital protection. A recent survey by the Indonesian Internet Service Providers' Association revealed that 48% of children under 12 have internet access, with many actively using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Internet penetration in Indonesia reaches an impressive 79.5% overall, with "Gen Z" users aged 12-27 showing an 87% connectivity rate. These figures underscore the critical importance of implementing comprehensive digital safety measures to shield vulnerable young users from potential online risks.

President Prabowo Subianto has expressed strong support for the initiative, emphasizing the need to protect children in digital spaces. The government's approach involves a nuanced strategy that balances child safety with access to information. Senior official Alexander Sabar noted that the interim regulations will focus on shielding children from physical, mental, and moral threats while maintaining some level of social media accessibility. This approach has generated mixed public reactions, with parents like Nurmayanti supporting stronger content controls, while human rights advocates like Anis Hidayah caution against completely restricting children's access to information.

The proposed regulations represent a complex challenge for social media platforms and tech giants. Companies like Meta and TikTok have yet to comment on the potential requirements. The government's plan mirrors global trends in digital child protection, drawing inspiration from Australia's approach and reflecting growing international concerns about online safety for minors. While the specific age limit remains undetermined, the initiative signals a proactive stance in addressing the potential dangers of unrestricted social media access for young users. The regulations aim to create a safer digital environment that protects children's well-being while recognizing the increasingly important role of digital platforms in modern communication and information sharing.