Indonesia tightens scrutiny on big tech as child protection rules take effect

Indonesia’s ministry of communication and digital affairs has escalated its enforcement of child safety regulations, summoning Google and Meta for examination over their compliance with the country’s new digital governance framework.

The move centres on adherence to Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025, known as PP TUNAS, which governs the operation of electronic systems in safeguarding children online. The regulation places particular emphasis on restricting account access for users under the age of 16.

The development signals a more assertive regulatory climate in Southeast Asia’s largest digital economy – one that increasingly prioritises user safety alongside platform growth. According to the ministry, the summons forms part of a structured enforcement process that begins with monitoring and may escalate to administrative sanctions if violations persist.

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Minister Meutya Hafid framed the move as a firm but procedural step in upholding the law. “The state is present and firm. There is no tolerance for non-compliance that could endanger children in the digital space.”

She added that the process is being carried out carefully to avoid maladministration, while ensuring that each enforcement step is grounded in a strong legal basis.

Wider industry implications

The ministry’s actions extend beyond Google and Meta. Warning letters have also been issued to TikTok and Roblox, urging both platforms to demonstrate full compliance with prior commitments.

Failure to show significant progress could see them subjected to similar summons and examinations.

At the same time, the ministry publicly acknowledged platforms that have moved quickly to comply, including Bigo Live and X, citing their implementation of age verification systems and the deactivation of underage accounts.

“Our appreciation goes to the platforms that have been responsive and compliant. This shows that compliance is not difficult when there is commitment,” said Hafid.

The government has stressed that this is not merely an administrative exercise but a broader assertion of state responsibility in shaping a safer digital environment.

The ministry also issued a wider reminder: all businesses operating in Indonesia’s digital space are expected to comply with local regulations, regardless of their global footprint.

Looking ahead, the ministry has pledged continued oversight and indicated it will not hesitate to take firmer action against platforms that fail to align with the rules – marking a decisive shift from policy formation to active enforcement.

Previously, Hafid highlighted that platforms had translated their commitments into concrete actions: X raised its minimum age to 16 and began identifying and deactivating underage accounts from 28 March 2026, while Bigo Live set its minimum age to 18 and strengthened protections through AI-assisted and human-moderated systems. Roblox and TikTok have also signalled a cooperative stance.

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