The Indonesian government has emphasized that child protection is the foundation of its digital economy strategy through Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on the Governance of Electronic Systems in Child Protection (PP TUNAS), set to take effect in March (01/03).

Minister Meutya Hafid Stresses Safety Over Economic Concerns

Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid said the regulation is a strategic choice for the nation, even as some industry players worry that stronger rules could affect the pace of the digital economy.

“No innovation and no digital economy target crimes against children. If there are impacts because we strengthen child protection, it is a policy choice worth making as a nation,” Meutya stated at her official residence in Jakarta Selatan on Friday (27/02/2026).

She responded to concerns that increased regulation could slow digital growth, emphasizing that child safety remains the top priority.

Global Practices Inform Indonesia’s Policies

According to Meutya, the government studied international practices and found that child protection is a growing policy trend. She cited Australia’s age restrictions and stronger digital safety measures, along with several European Union initiatives.

“So far, there is no significant economic impact recorded from regulations delaying children’s online access; such claims are unproven,” she added.

Dialogue with Industry and Careful Oversight

The regulation’s classification, implementation, and supervision mechanisms are developed with input from multiple stakeholders while prioritizing children’s safety.

“We will record and respond to these inputs and carefully handle the classification,” Meutya explained, ensuring that dialogue with platforms continues.

PP TUNAS to Begin in March

The government confirmed that PP TUNAS is targeted to be effective starting March. Supporting ministerial regulations are in final internal review at the Ministry of Communication and Digital after harmonization with the Ministry of Law.

“God willing, next month we will start. We hope all platforms support and comply because these rules exist solely to protect Indonesian children in the digital space,” Meutya concluded.

PHOTO: MINISTRY OF COMMUNICATION AND DIGITAL AFFAIRS

This article was created with AI assistance.

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