Indonesia tightens rules for digital platformsCEFR B1
17 Apr 2026
Adapted from Irma Garnesia, Global Voices • CC BY 3.0
Photo by Markus Winkler, Unsplash
Indonesia is stepping up regulation of global digital platforms as more people turn to the internet for news and information. In early March Minister of Communication and Digital Affairs Meutya Hafid and other officials inspected Meta’s office in South Jakarta. The visit was described as a follow-up to Article 40 of the Electronic Information and Transactions Law (UU ITE), which directs the government to protect public safety from misinformation and disinformation. The minister pressed Meta for transparency about algorithms and content moderation.
Since 2020 technology companies must register as Electronic System Operators (PSE) or face sanctions, including warnings, fines and access blocking. Komdigi runs a takedown system called SAMAN that can compel platforms to remove content within 4–24 hours. Wikimedia was blocked after refusing to register.
Recent events show the rules are contested. In June 2025 some public accounts on X received notices for posts critical of the government. TikTok temporarily suspended live streaming during a national demonstration in September 2025 after Komdigi summoned the company, while the government denied issuing a direct order. Critics warn that definitions of harmful content vary between agencies and that takedowns and data requests raise human rights concerns.
Difficult words
- regulation — official rules for how things are done
- algorithm — a set of rules a computer followsalgorithms
- misinformation — false or wrong information shared without intent
- disinformation — false information shared deliberately to harm
- sanction — a punishment or penalty for breaking rulessanctions
- takedown — an order to remove online material quickly
- transparency — clear and open information about actions
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think platforms should have to register with the government? Why or why not?
- How might fast takedown requests (within hours) affect journalists and users? Give one reason.
- What information should companies share to show transparency about their algorithms and moderation?
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