In a move that reflects the Indonesian government's commitment to safeguarding children in the digital realm, the Minister of Digital Communications, Meutia Havid, commended the fruitful collaboration between platforms X and Bigo Live in implementing new laws aimed at enhancing child safety. This statement was made during a press conference on March 27, 2026, where Havid emphasized that these measures serve as a model for adherence to local regulations.
The minister explained that both platforms X and Bigo Live have demonstrated full cooperation in meeting the requirements of Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025, which aims to regulate the use of electronic systems to protect children. She confirmed that this collaboration goes beyond mere formal compliance, as actual adjustments have been made to the systems and policies of both platforms.
Collaboration with Digital Platforms
Platform X has set the minimum age for users at 16 years, initiating the process of identifying and deactivating accounts of users below this age starting from March 28, 2026. Meanwhile, Bigo Live has raised the minimum age for users to 18 years, enhancing its protection system by employing artificial intelligence and human monitoring to oversee accounts of users who are below the permitted age.
These steps are part of the Indonesian government's broader efforts to protect children from potential risks in the digital world. Concerns have grown regarding the impact of social media on children and teenagers, with studies indicating that excessive use of these platforms can lead to psychological and behavioral issues. Therefore, implementing effective preventive measures is essential.
Importance of These Measures
These initiatives serve as a benchmark for other digital platforms, with expectations that additional platforms will follow suit in adhering to local laws. The success of these initiatives could lead to an improved online environment for children in Indonesia and may encourage other countries to take similar actions. The Indonesian government has also confirmed its commitment to continuously monitor the performance of digital platforms to ensure that obligations are effectively implemented.
Potential Consequences
These measures are particularly significant for Arab countries, which face similar challenges in protecting children from digital risks. Indonesia's experience can provide valuable lessons for Arab nations on how to regulate the digital space and ensure child safety. Given the increasing internet usage in the Arab world, the need for stringent laws to protect children has become urgent.
Regional Significance
As these steps are crucial for protecting children from escalating digital threats, they reflect the commitment of governments and digital platforms to social responsibility. The Indonesian model may inspire other nations to adopt similar strategies, enhancing child safety across different regions.
In conclusion, the initiatives taken by Indonesia not only aim to safeguard its children but also set a precedent for global efforts to create a safer digital environment for younger users. The ongoing commitment to monitoring and improving these measures will be key to their long-term success.