Indonesian parents welcome social media restriction for children-Xinhua

Jakarta, Indonesia – The Indonesian government has begun implementing restrictions on social media access for users under 16, a move intended to protect children from harmful content and excessive screen time. The phased rollout began March 28 and will continue as platforms ensure compliance, according to officials.

Indonesia Limits Social Media Access for Minors

The new regulation aims to address concerns about the impact of social media and artificial intelligence on children’s mental and physical health. Nurul Aisyah, a 62-year-old Jakarta resident, expressed relief at the new rules, stating, “Social media is a double-edged sword. In the right hands, it’s educational; in the wrong, it can severely harm a child’s mental and physical health.”

Many parents are already reinforcing the government’s mandate with household rules. Aisyah has implemented a “no app downloads without parental approval” policy, strictly limited screen time, and a “no devices” rule during meals. She noted that while children may initially resist, they often adjust and find other activities.

Parents also cite concerns about cyberbullying and online harassment. Nurul Aisyah highlighted reports of students being harassed online by classmates, emphasizing the risks of unchecked digital access. Indonesia has one of the largest online populations globally, with nearly half of its users under the age of 18, and many reportedly spend several hours online each day.

Denny Irawan, a 32-year-old father from Bekasi, has observed the negative effects of excessive screen time firsthand. “I’ve seen kids throw tantrums when their devices are taken away,” he said. “If they are glued to screens, they miss out on essential social skills and real-life experiences.” Irawan now limits his children’s screen time to 45 minutes daily and keeps devices out of reach at night.

While acknowledging the challenges, parents are cautiously optimistic about the new regulations. Nurul Aisyah believes the rules will give children a better chance to learn responsible social media use, stating, “Social media is here to stay, but now, our children have a better chance to learn how to use it responsibly.”