Indonesia’s Ministry of Communication and Digital has introduced Ministerial Decree No. 43 of 2025, which sets new rules for Free Space Optics (FSO) telecommunications equipment. Starting from May 18, 2025, this new regulation replaces the old one from 2022 to keep up with the latest technology and match international safety and quality standards.

Scope and Purpose:

The decree regulates Free Space Optics equipment transmitting data via light, ensuring laser safety, network interoperability, and mandatory compliance certification.

Key Technical and Safety Requirements

1. Laser Safety Standards

Free Space Optics  transmitters must comply with laser classifications per IEC 60825-1 and IEC 60825-12, including:

• Permitted laser classes: Class 1, 1M, 2, 2M, 3R, and 3B.

• Optical interface lines (e.g., Ethernet): Restricted to Class 1 and 1M only.

• Automatic Power Reduction (APR) is mandatory for all uplink transmitters.

Laser hazards and operational limits vary by class:

• Class 1: Safe under all conditions of normal use.

• Class 3B: High-risk; allowed only in Controlled Locations with safety mechanisms.

2. Site Access Classification

Free Space Optics installations must adhere to location-type access levels defined by IEC 60825-12:2022, which classifies installation sites into Unrestricted, Restricted, Inaccessible, and Controlled Locations. These classifications determine the permissible laser access levels at each site. Specifically, Class 3B and 4 lasers are strictly prohibited in Unrestricted, Restricted, or Inaccessible Locations due to their potential hazards. Class 3B lasers are only allowed in Controlled Locations, where enhanced safety measures and protocols must be implemented to protect personnel and the public.

3. Interface Interoperability Standards

Free Space Optics  systems must support IEEE 802.3-compliant Ethernet and SDH interfaces per ITU-T G.957/G.691 (STM-16, STM-64).

4. Electrical and EMC Safety Compliance

All Free Space Optics  equipment must pass compliance tests for electrical safety (SNI IEC 60950-1 or 62368-1) and electromagnetic compatibility (SNI CISPR 32:2015 or IEC CISPR 32). The decree’s annexes offer deployment diagrams for safe installation in commercial, residential, and outdoor environments, guiding laser alignment and placement of classes like 2M and 3R in rooftop and indoor settings.

5. Transitional Provisions

Free Space Optics  equipment certified before 18 May 2025 remains valid if compliant with the updated provisions in the new decree.

Ministerial Decree No. 43 of 2025 modernizes Indonesia’s digital infrastructure by enforcing strict laser safety and interoperability standards for Free Space Optics systems. Equipment makers, telecom operators, and integrators must comply with these rules to operate in Indonesia’s evolving digital landscape. Want to learn more about  Indonesia DJID ? Contact our experts at info@nanotechsol.com