We Talk: Indonesians on New Law Banning Social Media Access for Children Under 16

Why It Matters

The law could force social‑media firms to redesign user‑verification systems and underscores the growing demand for digital‑literacy initiatives, affecting both market access and child‑safety strategies in Indonesia.

Key Takeaways

• Law aims to shield minors from harmful online content.
• Parents favor time limits and Wi‑Fi controls over bans.
• Critics argue education outweighs outright social‑media prohibition for children.
• Enforcement challenges include monitoring and verifying ages on platforms.
• Debate highlights need for digital literacy alongside regulatory measures.

Summary

The video discusses Indonesia’s newly proposed law that would prohibit children under 16 from accessing social‑media platforms. Participants describe the measure as a government effort to protect youth from inappropriate content and to align online exposure with age‑appropriate standards.

Interviewees highlight mixed reactions: many parents already impose curfews, Wi‑Fi shutdowns, and strict usage limits, viewing the law as a reinforcement of existing household rules. Others argue that banning access does not address the root problem—lack of digital education—and warn that enforcement will be difficult without reliable age‑verification mechanisms.

A recurring quote from a respondent captures the sentiment: “lebih baik kita membekali anak kita dengan pengetahuan cukup dalam menghadapi dunia tersebut,” emphasizing that equipping children with digital literacy is preferable to outright prohibition. Several speakers also note that parental guidance, rather than state bans, remains the most effective safeguard.

The debate signals a broader shift toward regulatory scrutiny of tech platforms in emerging markets. Companies may need to develop robust age‑gating tools, while parents will likely face heightened expectations to monitor online behavior, reshaping Indonesia’s digital ecosystem and influencing regional policy trends.

Original Description

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On March 28, a new Indonesian law went into effect. The new law restricts children under 16 from accessing social media and other popular online platforms. All business entities operating in Indonesia are required to comply. The new law has received mixed reactions in some quarters. CGTN Stringer interviewed Indonesians to get their views.

One interviewee, Andre, said, "I think it's good to restrict social media for kids under 16 years old. To limit the content that is not good for the age group." However, another interviewee, Amadeus Syailendratama, held a different view, believing that the government should focus more on education rather than prohibition.

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