On April 22, 2026, the Indonesian Ministry of Communications and Digital Affairs (KOMDIGI) issued Ministerial order No. 197/2026, updating the SAR regulations for mobile phones and tablets. This order supersedes the previous order No. 177/2024 and came into effect on the date of its issuance.

 

Regulatory updates:

 

1. Scope of application

 

The Scope of the Regulation decree applies to:

• Cellular phones (smartphones and feature phones)

• Tablet computers

• Devices intended to be used within 20 cm of the human body

• Products with a radiated power greater than 20 mW

 

The SAR requirements cover exposure to radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields in two use scenarios:

• Head exposure (for devices used next to the ear)

• Body and limb exposure (torso/body and extremities)

 

Tablet computers that are not designed for voice communication using a speaker placed next to the ear are exempt from head SAR testing.

 

2. Reference Standards

 

Manufacturers may demonstrate compliance using either:

• ICNIRP Guidelines 1998, or

• ICNIRP Guidelines 2020

 

The adoption of both editions provides flexibility for manufacturers while aligning Indonesia with internationally recognized RF exposure frameworks.

 

3. Accepted Test Methods

 

For SAR evaluation, the decree recognizes globally accepted methods, including:

• IEC/IEEE 62209-1528

• EN 50360:2017

• EN 50566:2017

• U.S. FCC Knowledge Database (KDB) publications:

- KDB 941225 D01

- KDB 941225 D05

- KDB 941225 D05A

- KDB 447498 D01

 

These standards support testing across modern technologies, including multi-band and multi-antenna devices.

 

 

4. Certification Documentation Requirements

 

Applications for certification must include:

• SAR test reports

• Other documentation required under applicable regulations

• For exempt tablets:

- Declaration confirming no “next-to-ear” voice capability

- Technical specifications demonstrating this design limitation

 

5. Transitional Relief Until 31 July 2027

 

Recognizing limited domestic SAR testing capacity, Komdigi allows applicants to submit a statement from an Indonesian test laboratory indicating the expected issuance date of the SAR report when the report is not yet available.This temporary accommodation is valid until 31 July 2027.

 

Once the report is issued, it must be submitted to the Director of Digital Infrastructure Services within 14 calendar days.

 

6. Retesting and Enforcement

 

If the SAR report shows non-compliance, certificate holders may request one retest. The retest will be conducted jointly with the Directorate General of Digital Infrastructure, using market-purchased samples. All associated costs are borne by the certificate holder.

 

If the device remains non-compliant after testing or retesting, the certificate holder may be subject to sanctions under Indonesia’s telecommunications laws, including action for products found not to conform to the certified specifications.

Industry Impact

 

Decree No. 197 of 2026 reinforces Indonesia’s commitment to consumer safety while maintaining harmonization with international standards. Manufacturers should review product designs, validate SAR test reports, and coordinate with accredited laboratories to ensure uninterrupted market access.

 

Source: https://s3.sertifikasi.postel.go.id/production/rumusan/2026/1776993348191292809_kepmen%202026-197%20batasan%20SAR%20untuk%20perangkat%20seluler%20dan%20tablet.pdf%20.pdf

 

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