In a move to enforce its strict regulations on online content, Indonesia has blocked access to Elon Musk's X.com, a rebadged version of Twitter. The decision came as the domain previously hosted websites featuring content deemed inappropriate, including adult entertainment and gambling activities.

Usman Kansong, the director general of information and public communication at Indonesia's Ministry of Communication and Informatics (Kominfo), confirmed that the Ministry is actively working with X/Twitter to address the issue. However, this has left around 24 million X/Twitter users in the majority Muslim country unable to access the site.

During a press conference, Budi Arie, the Minister of Communication and Informatics, disclosed that a significant number of online gambling-related content, totaling 846,047 websites and social media platforms, had been blocked by Kominfo from 2018 until July 19, 2023.

The Ministry remains steadfast in its commitment to monitoring and terminating access to all forms of online gambling. Additionally, it collaborates with law enforcement authorities to combat such content and urges the public to report any instances of inappropriate online material.

The block on X.com is part of Indonesia's ongoing efforts to uphold its conservative values and maintain strict controls over internet content. While the Ministry engages in discussions with X/Twitter to find a resolution, the situation highlights the challenges faced by tech giants seeking to operate in regions with different cultural norms and regulations.

The issue also underscores the growing importance of content moderation and cooperation between social media platforms and local authorities in the ever-evolving digital landscape.