Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — The Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) plans to implement age classifications for all video games distributed in Indonesia starting January 2026.
Director General of the Digital Ecosystem at Komdigi, Edwin Hidayat Abdullah, said the policy will be enforced through the Indonesia Game Rating System (IGRS), which requires developers to label their games according to appropriate age groups based on content. The system is designed to ensure that children only play games suitable for their age.
“The Indonesia Game Rating System ensures that not every game can be played by all ages. Some are meant for specific age groups,” Edwin said during the IGDX Business & Conference 2025 in Kuta, Bali, on Friday (October 10), as reported by CNBC Indonesia.
He explained that many games currently available contain elements of violence or inappropriate language that are unsuitable for minors. Therefore, developers will be required to include clear age ratings such as 7+, 13+, or 18+.
“Starting January next year, every game in Indonesia must display an age-based rating. Each developer is required to specify which age group their game is meant for,” he added.
The rollout will be gradual. Developers or publishers must first conduct self-assessments to determine their game’s age category, followed by verification and periodic audits by Komdigi to ensure compliance.
Edwin emphasized that game developers also have a social responsibility to make sure their products do not negatively affect children’s development.
“Developers must ensure their games align with their intended age audience. They have a responsibility to protect the growth of Indonesian children,” he said.
He expressed optimism that the country’s gaming industry would support the new policy, noting that many developers had responded positively so far.
“We expect this policy to encourage healthy industry growth while protecting the character development of Indonesian children,” Edwin said.
Sanctions and takedown policy
Edwin warned that Komdigi will impose sanctions on developers who fail to include or mislabel age ratings. Violations could result in games being reclassified or permanently removed from circulation.
“If we find a game labeled 13+ but containing content inappropriate even for 18+, we will either reclassify it or take it down entirely, especially if it includes prohibited elements,” Edwin explained.
He added that serious violations, such as games featuring extreme violence, pornography, or gambling—would trigger an immediate permanent takedown.
“We will not tolerate any dishonesty regarding ratings. If developers lie, we will remove the game until it meets the proper classification,” he said.
The sanctions will apply to all games across platforms, including local titles and user-generated content, as well as foreign games distributed in Indonesia, which must comply with Indonesian standards.
Edwin also urged adults not to lend their identity cards (KTP) to minors attempting to bypass age restrictions.
“Please don’t lend your personal ID to children to log in or register for games that are restricted for their age group,” he concluded.
(Raidi/Agung)
