Like Malaysia, Indonesia has announced a nationwide ban on social media access for children under the age of 16, as part of a broader effort to address growing concerns about online safety. The policy was confirmed by Communications and Digital Affairs Minister Meutya Hafid, who said the regulation aims to protect young users from harmful digital environments.
The government plans to begin implementing the restriction gradually, starting on 28 March 2026. Under the regulation, minors under 16 will no longer be allowed to maintain accounts on certain digital platforms considered high risk.
Major Social Media Platforms Affected
The rule is expected to apply to a wide range of major social media services. Platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Roblox and Bigo Live have been identified among the services targeted by the regulation. Authorities said companies will be required to comply with the new requirements, which may include disabling existing underage accounts and preventing minors from creating new ones. However, the government has not yet provided full technical details on how enforcement will be implemented.
Government Cites Safety and Addiction Concerns
According to Indonesian officials, the move is intended to protect children from online risks that have become increasingly common on social platforms. These risks include exposure to pornography, cyberbullying, online fraud and digital addiction. Hafid described the situation as a serious challenge for families and said the government wants to ensure parents are not left to deal with the problem alone. The regulation is also framed as part of a wider push to create a safer digital environment for younger users.
Part of a Growing Global Trend
Indonesia’s decision follows a growing international movement toward stricter social media regulations for minors. Several governments have begun exploring age restrictions or verification systems in response to concerns about the impact of social media on children’s mental health and safety. Australia was among the first countries to introduce a nationwide social media ban for users under 16, and other nations, including France, Spain and the United Kingdom, are also considering similar measures.
Meanwhile in Malaysia, the government is planning to implement the minimum age requirement for teens in July 2026. That's the latest news development so far, as it will limit users below 16 years old from having a social media account. Stay tuned for more trending tech news at TechNave.com.
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