technology

The Government Is Formulating Regulations To Restrict The Age Of Social Media Users

The government is planning to establish new regulations concerning the restriction of social media usage. Such regulations have already been implemented in several countries to safeguard children. 

The Minister of Communication and Digital, Meutya Hafid, revealed this information following discussions with President Prabowo Subianto regarding the government's strategy to protect children in the digital space. According to Meutya, there is a possibility that the government will first draft a regulation while examining stronger regulations aimed at protecting children online. 

"We will conduct a thorough study, but fundamentally, while bridging towards more consistent regulations, the government will issue preliminary rules regarding age limits for social media usage," Meutya stated at the Presidential Palace Complex in Jakarta on Monday (January 13), as reported by Antara. 

Meutya further noted that the government will also involve the House of Representatives (DPR) in collaboratively determining the appropriate regulatory framework. 

"Once again, we will issue regulations while discussing with the DPR what rules or laws can be enacted to protect our children," she emphasized.  

One country that has already implemented age restrictions for social media users limits access for children under 16 years old to platforms such as Snapchat, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and others.  

This legislation also imposes strict penalties on technology companies that violate the rules, with fines reaching up to AU$50 million (approximately IDR 516 billion). 

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated that the purpose of this regulation is to protect children from the dangers associated with social media use, including addiction, exposure to harmful content, and impacts on mental health. However, many children and millennial activists argue that this ban is overly stringent, considering that social media also offers benefits, such as facilitating learning and fostering relationships. 

Tag: Meutya Hafid Minister Of Communication And Digital