Support for the social media restriction children Indonesia policy is emerging at the grassroots level, with parents in Semarang expressing strong concerns over the impact of digital platforms on their children.
Widy Astari (35), a resident of Pedurungan, said limiting children’s access to social media is essential in today’s environment, where online content is increasingly difficult to control.
“I totally agree. We really have to protect our children from social media. It has become very concerning,” she said on Saturday.
As part of her approach, Widy said she has implemented strict limits on her children’s use of gadgets and social media. While her children are still allowed to use devices, their access is carefully monitored, particularly in terms of what content they can view.
Instead of giving unrestricted access, she provides alternative digital tools designed for learning. These include devices loaded with educational games and lessons in subjects such as English and mathematics, allowing children to play while learning in a controlled environment.
Her approach reflects a broader concern among parents that unrestricted digital exposure may negatively affect children’s development.
Another parent, Eliza Wido (48), a resident of West Semarang, also supports the social media restriction children Indonesia policy, citing risks to children’s behavior if usage is left unchecked.
She shared her experience of her child’s early exposure to platforms like TikTok, initially through a shared account.
“My child just got a phone. Before that, when using mine, he was already accessing TikTok. Now that he has his own device, it is harder to control,” she said.
To limit access, Eliza has taken steps such as not providing mobile data packages, although she remains concerned that her child could still connect to the internet through friends.
Parents also highlighted the influence of peer environments on children’s digital habits. Many children feel pressured to own gadgets because their friends already have them.
Eliza noted that this social factor makes it more challenging for parents to enforce restrictions, especially when children compare themselves with their peers.
She expressed hope that schools would play a more active role in raising awareness about responsible digital use.
“I also hope schools will provide understanding to children. My child, who is in sixth grade, is not allowed to bring a phone to school,” she said.
From the children’s perspective, the policy has already begun to shape daily habits. Azka (14), a junior high school student in Semarang, said his parents have set clear limits on his phone usage.
“At home, I only use my phone for two hours, except during holidays. At school, I sometimes bring it for studying, but I only use it for that purpose,” he explained.
This reflects a growing awareness among families about balancing educational needs with controlled digital exposure.
The social media restriction children Indonesia policy is part of a broader national effort led by the Ministry of Communication and Digital.
The government officially enacted Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 on March 28, 2026, targeting high-risk digital platforms and limiting access for children under the age of 16.
The regulation is designed to create a safer digital environment, particularly as children’s online activity continues to increase across the country.
While many parents support the policy, they also acknowledge the practical challenges of enforcement. Access to shared internet networks, peer influence, and the integration of technology into education all complicate efforts to fully restrict usage.
Nevertheless, the growing support from families in Semarang indicates a strong public awareness of the risks associated with social media.
The social media restriction children Indonesia initiative reflects a broader shift toward prioritizing child safety in the digital era.
Parents, schools, and policymakers are increasingly aligned on the need for stronger controls, balanced with education and supervision.
As implementation continues, the effectiveness of the policy will depend not only on regulation but also on cooperation at the family and community levels, ensuring that children can grow in a safer and more supportive environment.
