Deputy Minister for Population and Family Development (Wamendukbangga), Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka, emphasized the importance of parents staying updated on their children’s interests and engaging in physical activities together to prevent addiction to games and gadgets. Speaking at the Double Check discussion on the Role of Family Development in Welcoming a Golden Indonesia 2045, organized by the Presidential Communication Office (PCO) in collaboration with Gempita, in Jakarta, Isyana stressed the need for parents to continuously learn and keep pace with their children’s understanding of online applications.
Children are naturally drawn to seeking “cheap dopamine” through activities like scrolling on social media or playing online games, which can lead to addiction. To address this issue, Isyana highlighted the significance of sports and outdoor activities in providing dopamine through sunlight and movement. She also referred to Ruang Bersama Indonesia (RBI), a program under the Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, designed to create safe and inclusive spaces for women, children, and communities to empower themselves, learn, play, and foster creativity.
Deputy Minister Veronica Tan shared her hopes that RBI would offer children access to safe and creative environments, engaging them in traditional and creative games, sports, and steering them away from gadget addiction. By encouraging physical activities and providing safe spaces, parents and communities can play a crucial role in preventing children from becoming addicted to games and gadgets.
