TikTok is back in Indonesia, but its regulatory tightrope just got shakier
TikTok just regained its licence in Indonesia after a brief suspension. Here’s how the drama unfolded and what marketers need to know next
TikTok’s operations in Indonesia are back online after a brief licence suspension, ending a turbulent weekend for one of Southeast Asia’s biggest digital platforms.
The platform was temporarily blocked for failing to provide data tied to anti-government protests but regained its operating licence within 24 hours after meeting the government’s demands. For marketers and brand strategists, the saga underscores how quickly access to critical markets can hinge on regulatory pressure. It also signals why compliance, transparency, and agility are essential in any platform strategy.
This article breaks down what happened in Indonesia, how it connects to TikTok's broader regulatory challenges in the region, and what marketers should be doing to manage platform risk.
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Atikah Amalia
What happened in Indonesia?
On Friday October 3 2025, Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs suspended TikTok’s electronic system operator licence. The trigger was TikTok’s delay in providing data about livestreaming activity during anti-government protests that swept across several cities.
Specifically, the government had requested data on TikTok Live activities and traffic spikes between August 25 and 30. Protests had flared up over parliamentary perks and escalated after the death of a ride-hailing driver struck by a police vehicle. TikTok submitted the requested information later the same day. By Saturday evening, the ministry reinstated its licence.
Alexander Sabar, Director General of Digital Space Supervision, stated that TikTok had fulfilled its obligations. He also emphasized the ministry’s ongoing monitoring efforts to ensure that platforms support a secure and trusted digital ecosystem.
Patrecia Meliana
Regulatory tensions are stacking up
This isn’t TikTok’s first clash with Indonesian regulators. Just days before the licence suspension, the country’s antitrust body fined the company nearly US$900,000 for failing to notify authorities of its acquisition of eCommerce player Tokopedia.
Back in 2023, Indonesia suspended TikTok Shop’s operations to protect small businesses from what it called predatory pricing. To get back in the game, TikTok acquired a 75% stake in Tokopedia and merged their commerce offerings to comply with local policy.
The trend is clear. Regulatory headwinds in Southeast Asia are growing, and TikTok is under increasing scrutiny over data practices, livestream moderation, and market dominance.
Why this matters for marketers
Indonesia is not just another growth market for TikTok. With more than 100 million users, it's the company’s second-largest audience globally. TikTok Shop in Indonesia alone generated US$6.2 billion in GMV in 2024, trailing only the US and outpacing Thailand, according to Momentum Works.
For digital marketers, here are three reasons why the latest drama in Indonesia should be on your radar:
1. Platform risk is now a Southeast Asia reality
This moment confirms that even market leaders can face abrupt service disruption. If your funnel relies heavily on TikTok traffic or creator commerce, you need a backup plan. Start diversifying your media mix to reduce risk exposure.
2. Compliance agility is a competitive advantage
TikTok recovered quickly, but your brand might not. Marketers must stay updated on policy shifts, especially in markets where platforms operate under real-time regulatory scrutiny.
3. Monetisation tools are not guaranteed
TikTok Live, a key revenue driver for sellers and creators, was briefly paused during the protests. Whether due to safety or policy, such disruptions can derail campaigns. Brands using livestreaming should build contingency flows and audience handoffs across channels.
TikTok may be back online in Indonesia, but the message is clear. Marketers must treat platform risk and regulatory awareness as core parts of digital strategy. Whether you're investing in commerce, creator campaigns, or regional growth, you can’t afford to assume business as usual.
The platforms will continue to evolve, but your strategy should be built to withstand the turbulence.
