Indonesia and Malaysia Discuss Child Protection Regulations in the Digital Space

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Indonesia and Malaysia share a common perspective on the importance of child protection in the digital space.

Both nations discussed regulatory approaches and age verification mechanisms to ensure children are safer while using the internet.

“The safety of children in the digital world is a critical issue for both countries. Indonesia and Malaysia have a close relationship, not only because of geographical proximity but also due to our shared aspirations to build a future for the next generation,” said Minister of Communication and Digital (Menkomdigi) Meutya Hafid.

Meutya made this statement during her meeting with Malaysian Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil on the second day of Bali Tech Week 2026 in Denpasar, Bali, on Tuesday (20/10/2026).

She emphasized that the expansion of digital connectivity must be accompanied by the government's responsibility to ensure that society, particularly children, are protected while accessing the internet.

According to her, the government is now faced with the challenge not only of expanding digital access but also of ensuring that this access is safe, responsible, and aligned with the needs of each generation.

The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) implements three main pillars: Connected, Grown, and Protected, serving as the foundational guidelines for its transformation programs.

These three pillars underpin the assurance that advancements in connectivity can drive economic growth while also providing protection for society in the digital space.

This includes child protection, which has become a shared concern due to the increasing risks associated with internet use among children.

“All three pillars are equally important. Therefore, we cannot choose to focus on just one,” Meutya stated.

During the session with the Malaysian Communications Minister, Meutya highlighted the importance of cooperation between Indonesia and Malaysia in discussing child safety in the digital space.

Both nations share geographical closeness as well as a mutual aspiration to build a safer digital environment for future generations.

Fahmi Fadzil, the Malaysian Communications Minister, stated that Malaysia’s regulatory approach aligns with that of Indonesia.

Malaysia has implemented the Online Safety Act (ONSA), which includes the Child Protection Code.

Fahmi believes that child protection is a crucial part of efforts to create a safe and sustainable digital economy.