By: Dimas Arvian Nugroho
The government’s firm stance in managing the digital space has resurfaced, as the Ministry of Communication and Digital took a stance against a number of global technology platforms deemed not to have fully complied with child protection regulations. This policy is not merely administrative law enforcement, but rather a strong signal that the state is committed to ensuring that young people do not grow up without safeguards amidst the increasingly complex and unmanageable flow of digitalization.
The government, through the Ministry of Communication and Digital, demonstrated its seriousness by summoning two global technology giants, Meta and Google, for failing to comply with their obligations as stipulated in Government Regulation Number 17 of 2025 concerning the Governance of Electronic System Implementation for Child Protection, also known as Tunas Regulation. This regulation officially came into effect on March 28 and is no longer essential in the effort to create a safer digital space for Indonesian children. Minister of Communication and Digital Meutya Hafid emphasized that the summons is part of the administrative sanctions imposed on entities that fail to comply with applicable legal provisions, including derivative regulations in the form of Ministerial Regulation No. 9 of 2026.
According to Hafid, the two companies have indicated their agreement since the beginning of the regulation drafting process, so the current non-compliance does not completely surprise the government. However, a firm stance is still needed to prevent a negative image that could affect the implementation of child protection policies in the digital space. In this context, the state acts not only as a regulator but also as a protector of the public interest, especially vulnerable groups such as children.
In addition to Meta and Google, the government has also issued warnings to other platforms such as TikTok and Roblox, which are deemed not to have fully met the established standards. However, both platforms are still considered to have demonstrated good faith by committing to compliance, even though the technical implementation is not yet complete. The government stated that it will continue to monitor current developments and does not rule out the possibility of similar firm action if compliance is not immediately and comprehensively achieved.
The implementation of the Tunas PP did not arise in a vacuum. Data showing that approximately 70 million children under the age of 16 are active online is a serious alarm for the government. The high average screen time of 7 to 8 hours per day further reinforces the urgency of policy intervention. Without clear regulations, children are at risk of falling into unhealthy digital consumption patterns, ranging from addiction to exposure to harmful content.
However, the government also recognizes that change cannot happen instantly. This policy transition period will undoubtedly present challenges for children, parents, and platform providers. Initial discomfort is an inevitable consequence, but it must be seen as part of the process towards a healthier digital ecosystem. In this regard, Meutya Hafid emphasized the importance of the public’s role in overseeing policy implementation and boldly reprimanding platforms that neglect their responsibilities.
Support for the Tunas Regulation also came from the medical community, particularly the Indonesian Pediatrician Association. Dr. Fitri Hartanto, Head of the Coordination Unit for Growth and Development and Social Pediatrics at the Indonesian Pediatric Association (IDAI), assessed this regulation as an important step in maintaining balanced child development in the digital era. He emphasized that providing access must go hand in hand with strengthening the role of the family, so that policies do not simply replace parents’ functions, but rather strengthen them.
Dr. Fitri Hartanto believes that children need space to develop holistically, not only through digital interactions but also through real-world experiences. Therefore, the Tunas Regulation (PP Tunas) is expected to provide a foundation that supports parents in optimally fulfilling their parenting roles. Similarly, the Chairperson of the Indonesian Association of Indonesian Children’s Associations (IDAI), Dr. Piprim Basarah Yanuarso, assessed that this regulation has been long-awaited, given the growing concern about the negative impact of social media on children’s mental health and development.
From an educational and social perspective, Professor Susanto from the Jakarta Quranic University also highlighted the importance of an inspiring approach to changing children’s gadget habits. According to Susanto, a ban alone will be ineffective if not balanced with engaging alternative activities that align with children’s interests. He encouraged parents to develop their children’s potential through activities such as sports, art, science, and entrepreneurship, as well as implementing project-based learning methods that have been proven to reduce dependence on digital devices.
Over the past year, the government has demonstrated significant achievements in national digital transformation, from strengthening internet infrastructure to increasing public digital literacy through various educational programs. These efforts provide a crucial foundation for supporting the implementation of the Tunas Government Regulation (PP Tunas), as strong regulations must be balanced with adequate ecosystem readiness for effective and sustainable implementation.
Ultimately, the Tunas Government Regulation (PP Tunas) is not simply an administrative regulation, but rather a collective commitment to protecting the future of the younger generation. Its successful implementation depends heavily on the synergy between the government, digital platforms, families, and the wider community.
Therefore, all parties need to take an active role in ensuring that the digital space does not become a threat, but rather a safe and productive platform for children’s growth and development. This shared awareness must continue to be built so that child protection doesn’t remain a mere discourse but is truly realized in everyday life.
*) Observer of Education and Digital Literacy
