Indonesia’s government has suspended TikTok’s registration status as an electronic system provider due to the company’s failure to comply with data sharing requirements.
According to Alexander Sabar, an official at Indonesia’s Communications and Digital Ministry, TikTok did not provide complete data related to its live stream feature, traffic, streaming, and monetization.
The ministry’s decision came after some accounts with ties to online gambling activities used TikTok’s live stream feature during recent national protests and monetized it. The protests, which rocked the world’s third largest democracy, were sparked by exorbitant lawmaker allowances and police brutality. TikTok temporarily suspended its live feature during the protests, citing efforts to “keep TikTok a safe and civil space”.
The suspension could potentially lead to a full block of TikTok in Indonesia if the company fails to comply with the ministry’s requirements. TikTok has over 100 million accounts based in Indonesia and is working on the issue with the digital ministry. A TikTok spokesperson stated that the company respects the laws in the markets it operates in and is cooperating with the ministry.
Despite the suspension, TikTok remains accessible to users in Indonesia, with the app functioning normally as of Friday. The company provided only partial data, citing internal procedures, which the ministry deemed insufficient. “We are committed to working with the government to address their concerns and ensure the platform remains safe and enjoyable for users,” a TikTok spokesperson said.
The Indonesian government has been tightening regulations on social media platforms, requiring them to comply with data sharing requirements and take measures to prevent online gambling and other illicit activities. TikTok’s suspension highlights the challenges faced by social media companies in balancing free speech with regulatory compliance.
TikTok has over 100 million accounts based in Indonesia, making it a significant market for the company. The company is working to resolve the issue and ensure compliance with Indonesian regulations.