Post by : Shakul

The Indonesian government is set to evaluate the impact of its new child protection regulation, formally known as Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025 or PP Tunas, focusing on how it affects children’s mental health and digital behavior. The regulation, which came into force on March 28, 2026, aims to strengthen online safety by limiting children’s exposure to high-risk digital platforms.

The study will be jointly conducted by the Ministry of Health Indonesia and the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs Indonesia. It will track key indicators such as depression and anxiety levels, sleep quality, screen time, cyberbullying incidents, and access to mental health services. Researchers will use a mixed-method approach, starting with a baseline assessment followed by evaluations over six to twelve months and a midterm review within two years.

Under the regulation, children’s access is being restricted on major platforms including YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Bigo Live, and Roblox. These measures are intended to reduce harmful exposure and promote healthier digital habits among children.

Health officials have raised concerns over rising cases linked to excessive online activity. Data from Menur Mental Hospital shows a sharp increase in issues related to pornography exposure and online gaming addiction between 2022 and 2025. Experts warn that social media platforms use reward-based systems—such as likes and comments—that can affect brain development, potentially leading to addictive behavior patterns similar to gambling.

Recent global research also supports these concerns, indicating that early and prolonged exposure to social media may increase the risk of psychological disorders in adolescents. The Indonesian government hopes that this regulation, combined with ongoing evaluation, will help create a safer digital environment while supporting children’s mental and emotional well-being.

#world news #Global News #Indonesia News #indonesia