The Indonesian government has announced the enactment of a new law, numbered 17 of 2025, which aims to protect children from the risks they may face in the digital space. This law comes at a time when concerns are growing about the impact of modern technology on children, and it is considered a strategic step to safeguard future generations.
In statements, the Deputy Director of the Education Center at Dar Al-Uloom in Indonesia, Khalid Al-Rahman, emphasized that this law represents a moral intervention by the state to protect children. He pointed out that this step aligns with global trends in developed countries that strive to achieve safe digital standards for children.
Details of the Law
The law for protecting children from digital risks aims to provide a safe environment for children in the digital space, including a set of measures that require digital platforms to adhere to specific standards to protect young users. The law is set to come into effect on March 28, 2026, giving digital companies ample time to adapt to the new requirements.
Khalid Al-Rahman also highlighted the importance of this law in protecting children from exposure to harmful content, noting that the human brain, particularly the frontal cortex, is still developing, making children more susceptible to the negative effects of digital content.
Background & Context
This initiative is part of the Indonesian government's efforts to address the challenges posed by modern technology, especially given the significant increase in children's use of smartphones and tablets. Studies have shown that children spend long hours in front of screens, negatively affecting their mental and physical health.
This law also aligns with Islamic principles that call for the protection of the mind and soul, as safeguarding children's well-being is a priority for society. Thus, the new law reflects the government's commitment to protecting future generations from digital risks.
Impact & Consequences
This law is expected to have a significant impact on how children use digital media. By imposing restrictions on the content available to children, it will reduce their exposure to harmful materials, contributing to improved mental health and the development of their social skills.
Additionally, this law may help raise awareness among parents about the importance of monitoring their children's use of digital devices, potentially leading to improved family relationships and enhanced communication between generations.
Regional Significance
This Indonesian step serves as a model for the Arab region, where many Arab countries face similar challenges regarding the impact of technology on children. Arab nations could benefit from Indonesia's experience in enacting laws to protect children, contributing to enhancing their safety in the digital space.
In conclusion, the law for protecting children from digital risks in Indonesia represents an important step towards securing a better future for upcoming generations. Other countries should consider this experience to develop similar strategies to protect their children in an increasingly digital world.