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| Deputy Minister of Population and Family Development Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka speaking at a discussion in Jakarta about the importance of physical activity for children to prevent gadget addiction. |
Jakarta, August 9, 2025 – Deputy Minister of Population and Family Development, Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka, emphasized the importance of parents providing space and time for physical activities to keep children from becoming addicted to games and gadgets. She shared this during a discussion titled “The Role of Family Development in Welcoming Indonesia’s Golden Era 2045,” held at the Presidential Communication Office (PCO) in Jakarta.
Isyana urged parents to keep learning and stay updated on what their kids are interested in. “Kids often learn faster than their parents when it comes to online apps and technology. Parents need to catch up to guide them better,” she said.
She explained that children naturally seek what’s called “cheap dopamine” — quick hits of pleasure from scrolling social media or playing online games, which can lead to addiction. “One solution, as Veronica Tan mentioned earlier, is more physical activity. Dopamine can also come from sunlight and outdoor activities because the human body is designed to move, not just scroll,” Isyana added.
Veronica Tan, Deputy Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, shared about her ministry’s program called Ruang Bersama Indonesia (RBI). This program provides safe, inclusive spaces for women, children, and the community to empower themselves, learn, play, and foster creativity. Through RBI, Veronica hopes children will have more access to traditional games, creative play, and sports — helping reduce gadget addiction.
With government initiatives and active parental involvement, it is hoped that Indonesian children will grow up healthy and balanced between digital and physical worlds. Moving forward, improving open spaces and creative programs like RBI will be key to preventing technology addiction and shaping a smart, productive generation for Indonesia’s 2045 vision.