Jakarta, INTI - YouTube Indonesia stated that it was reviewing the new regulations regarding restrictions on access to digital platforms and social media for children under the age of 16, as stated in the derivative of the Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on Electronic System Governance for Child Protection (PP TUNAS).
A YouTube Indonesia representative, when contacted on Monday, March 9, 2026, stated that the platform continued to engage in constructive communication with the government regarding the implementation of the regulation.
"We are reviewing these new regulations to ensure they align with our goals, support parents, and maintain access to learning for millions of Indonesians," a YouTube spokesperson said in an official statement.
The platform, which is part of Alphabet's Google, added, "We will continue to engage in constructive communication with the government and remain committed to protecting young generation in the digital world, not alienating them from it."
The Regulation is to Protect Children from High-Risk Digital Platforms
Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs, Meutya Hafid, stated that the Ministerial Regulation (Permen) Number 9 will be implemented gradually. Several platforms required to implement the regulation include Roblox, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, and Bigo Live.
Meutya emphasized that this decision was not based on an internet usage ban, but rather on delaying access to high-risk digital platforms until a safer age.
Half of Indonesian Children was Exposed to Sexual Content
Meutya cited some data from UNICEF showing that half of Indonesian children who use the internet have been exposed to sexual content on social media. Furthermore, only 42% of children reported feeling afraid or uncomfortable from their experiences in the digital space.
Another report revealed that there are approximately 1.45 million cases of online child exploitation. This fact prompted the government to strengthen child protection through PP TUNAS No. 17 of 2025. This regulation stipulates the responsibilities of digital and electronic system providers in protecting children from various digital risks.
"Through PP TUNAS, the government postpones the age of access for children to high-risk digital platforms to 16, and for lower-risk services from 13," Meutya said.
Conclusion
YouTube Indonesia is reviewing the new derivative regulation from PP TUNAS No. 17 of 2025, which restricts children under the age of 16 from accessing several social and digital platforms. YouTube Indonesia stated that they are continuing constructive communications with the government officials on this matter. The government said that the purpose of this regulation is to protect children from high-risk digital platforms and their harmful content.
Read more: Indonesia Plans to Ban Social Media Access for Children Under 16