The Chairman of the Muhammadiyah Association in Indonesia, Taqi, announced his support for restricting social media use for children under the age of 16 to protect the new generation from digital risks. This announcement was made during a press conference in the city of Semarang, where Taqi emphasized that the association supports and understands the importance of implementing these new laws.
This step is part of the implementation of Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025, which aims to regulate the use of electronic systems to protect children. This law is set to come into effect on March 28, 2026, reflecting the Indonesian government's commitment to safeguarding children's rights in the digital space.
Details of the Announcement
Taqi explained that social media contains diverse and unlimited content, making it difficult for children to distinguish between good and bad content. He pointed out that children at this age do not possess the ability to differentiate between accurate information and fake news, exposing them to significant risks.
Taqi also affirmed that the implementation of these laws will help reduce the harms resulting from the unregulated use of social media. He indicated that there is an urgent need to impose strict restrictions on access to these platforms to ensure children's safety.
Background & Context
Indonesia is considered one of the largest internet markets in the world, with a continuously increasing number of social media users. However, this rapid growth has led to new challenges regarding the protection of children from harmful content. Studies have shown that children who use social media at an early age may face psychological and behavioral problems due to exposure to inappropriate content.
In recent years, Indonesia has witnessed a rise in awareness regarding the importance of protecting children in the digital space. Numerous governmental and community initiatives have been launched to promote this awareness, including workshops and seminars targeting parents and educators.
Impact & Consequences
The implementation of these laws is expected to have a significant impact on how children use social media. In addition to protecting children, this restriction may alter user behaviors in the digital space, potentially affecting companies that rely on digital advertising.
This move may also open the door for further discussions about children's rights in the digital space and how to balance freedom of expression with child protection. Other countries in the region may adopt similar models, reflecting a shift in how child protection issues are addressed in the digital world.
Regional Significance
The issue of protecting children in the digital space is also a vital topic in many Arab countries. Concerns are growing about the impact of social media on children and adolescents. Some Arab countries have begun taking similar steps to protect children from digital risks, reflecting the importance of this issue at the regional level.
In conclusion, supporting the restriction of social media use for children represents an important step towards protecting the new generation from digital risks. This trend reflects the urgent need to ensure children's safety in a world increasingly reliant on technology.