Indonesia has announced its support for a law aimed at protecting children from the adverse effects of social media, through the issuance of Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025, which seeks to shield children from the risks associated with social media use. This announcement was made by the President of the Indonesian Pediatric Association, Beprim Basarah Yanwarso, during a press conference in the capital, Jakarta.
Yanwarso emphasized that this law represents an important step in safeguarding the new generation, noting that the negative effects of social media on children's growth have become an increasing concern. He explained that these measures are just the beginning, as ongoing efforts are necessary to protect children from digital risks.
Details of the Law
The law for protecting children from the effects of social media includes a range of measures aimed at reducing children's exposure to harmful content. Yanwarso pointed out that children under the age of two should be prohibited from using smart devices, as this period is crucial for their growth and development.
He also confirmed that older children suffer from health and psychological issues as a result of excessive use of smart devices and social media. This law is seen as a vital intervention to protect the physical and mental health of children in Indonesia.
Background & Context
This move comes amid growing global concerns about the impact of social media on children. Numerous studies have shown that excessive use of these platforms can lead to psychological problems such as depression and anxiety. Additionally, children in their developmental stages require real social interaction and sensory experiences that cannot be compensated for by screens.
In recent years, Indonesia has witnessed a significant increase in social media usage among children and youth, leading to heightened worries about the effects of these platforms on their mental and physical health. This law is part of the Indonesian government's efforts to protect children from these risks.
Impact & Consequences
This law is considered an important step towards raising awareness about the necessity of protecting children in the digital age. It is expected to contribute to reducing children's exposure to harmful content, thereby improving their mental and physical health. However, these measures must be accompanied by awareness efforts for families and communities on how to use technology safely.
Moreover, implementing this law requires cooperation between the government, digital platforms, and families to ensure the effectiveness of these measures. Without community support, these laws may be insufficient to achieve the desired objectives.
Regional Significance
Indonesia's experience in protecting children from the effects of social media serves as a model for the Arab region. Many Arab countries face similar challenges regarding the impact of technology on children. Arab nations can benefit from this experience by developing similar policies to protect children and raise awareness about digital risks.
In conclusion, this law highlights the importance of safeguarding children in the technology era and underscores the need for collective efforts to ensure their safety and healthy development.