Indonesia To Censor Web Content Public Outraged

Tifatul Sembiring, the Indonesian Minister of Information and Communications publicly announced recently an outline of plans to filter content on the internet by using a system like the one Australia has chosen for their censoring efforts. The proposed plan, by means of a monitoring committee would determine what online content is to be blocked at the internet service provider level.
Under the new system, ISPs would be prohibited from distributing, transmitting, or otherwise making accessible content such as pornography and anything else deemed illegal or immoral. Access to content containing, “ lies and misleading information” will also be banned in Indonesia. Article 4 in particular looks to target gambling in the country. Websites that have any connection to gambling are prohibited which could change the outlook for online gambling adversely in the nation.

People who use the web feel this is a dangerous plan that spells the end of freedom of expression and the right to information. Opposition to the proposed plan is growing fast with journalists and political reporters leading the charge. The youth of Indonesia also feel their right to free expression will be removed if this law takes effect. Online gambling is a pass time many Indonesians enjoy and if the censorship goes according to the government plan the options for gaming online will be dramatically reduced. Media activists and the Alliance of Independent Journalists have been very vocal saying that this is a clear violation of political and internet freedom, denouncing the plan as ambiguous and ill-conceived. At least 1400 Facebook members have responded with protest letters. Although the government has said this is just a first draft the protests continue with growing support. Whether the Minister of Information and Communications plans to make further announcements with changes to the plan is anybody's bet.