INDONESIA ISSUES WARNING TO GOOGLE OVER NON-COMPLIANCE WITH CHILD ONLINE SAFETY RULES

Indonesia has formally warned Google, the parent company of YouTube, for failing to comply with newly implemented child protection rules governing digital platforms.

Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid said the government issued the warning after an April 7 inspection found that YouTube had not met its obligations under Government Regulation No. 17 of 2025, also known as PP Tunas.

“It was found that YouTube has not fulfilled its compliance obligations and has not stated its intention to comply with applicable laws in the near future,” Hafid said.

PP Tunas, which took effect on March 28, requires digital platforms to implement strict governance measures to protect minors online. Its implementing guidelines, Ministerial Regulation No. 9 of 2026, outline penalties ranging from warning letters to temporary suspension and possible termination of access.

Google has since received a formal warning from Indonesia’s Director General of Digital Space Supervision.

Authorities said enforcement will follow a “gradual” sanctions process while still allowing platforms the opportunity to comply.

“Our sanctions are gradual, while still hoping for a change in attitude from Google, and today we issued a warning letter,” Hafid added.

Officials contrasted Google’s non-compliance with other platforms, noting that Meta Platforms has already fully complied with the regulation by restricting access to users aged 16 and above on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads. Other platforms such as X and Bigo Live have also met the requirements.

The regulation originally covers eight major platforms: Instagram, Facebook, Threads, X, Bigo Live, YouTube, TikTok, and Roblox, all of which are expected to adhere to stricter safeguards for minors under the new law.

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