As the gaming industry in Indonesia continues to flourish, the government is prioritizing the safety of young players in the digital space. The Ministry of Communication and Digital (Komdigi) has initiated various measures aimed at safeguarding children while promoting the growth of the gaming sector.
Three Key Principles of Komdigi's Policy
According to Alfreno Kautsar Ramadhan, the Special Staff of the Minister for Youth and Startups, Komdigi's current policy framework is based on three fundamental principles: Connected, Growing, and Safe. The emphasis on the 'Safe' aspect is crucial, as the government strives not only to boost the digital economy but also to ensure that the digital environment is secure for all users, especially minors.
Implementation of the PP Tunas Initiative
One of the strategies adopted by the government is the PP Tunas initiative, which focuses on protecting children in the digital landscape. Alfreno highlighted that digital platforms are encouraged to conduct self-assessments to evaluate the risks their services pose to young users. To date, around 175 platforms have either submitted or are in the process of submitting their self-assessments for Komdigi's evaluation.
Evaluating Digital Platforms for Child Safety
This evaluation process aims to help the government identify which platforms require closer monitoring, particularly those frequently used by children. Alfreno stressed the importance of this initiative by stating, "When we evaluate and receive reports, we can assess whether the risks are high or low. We are currently in the evaluation phase." The outcomes of these evaluations will guide future regulatory actions.
The DARA Platform for Parents and Children
To further assist parents and children, Komdigi has introduced a platform named DARA, designed to provide support when digital usage issues arise. Alfreno explained that changes in behavior, such as increased irritability, social withdrawal, or excessive screen time, can be warning signs that parents should monitor closely. He emphasized that DARA is user-friendly and readily accessible, stating, "DARA is very accessible, it's just one chat away."
While some games are educational, Alfreno cautioned parents to remain vigilant regarding the types of games their children play and their overall usage patterns. In addition to these initiatives, Komdigi is also fostering collaboration with industry players, including the Indonesian Game Association (AGI).
Discussions are currently underway regarding age categorization for games to ensure that products are better suited to their intended audiences. Alfreno noted that such collaborative efforts are essential, as child protection cannot be solely the responsibility of the government; it requires the active involvement of platforms, developers, associations, and parents alike.
Through these comprehensive approaches, the government hopes to cultivate a thriving gaming ecosystem in Indonesia while ensuring the safety of children in the digital realm.
Source: https://inet.detik.com/games-news/d-8610095/jurus-komdigi-agar-anak-tetap-aman-main-game
