Indonesia is entering a phase of aging population that requires more elderly-friendly social and economic conditions, according to government officials. The government is pushing a paradigm shift to view senior citizens not merely as welfare recipients but as an active, healthy, and independent group with a role to play in national development.
Budi Setiyono, secretary of the Ministry of Population and Family Development and head of the National Population and Family Planning Board (BKKBN), said the demographic shift must be accompanied by policies that position elderly citizens as development actors. According to Setiyono, the elderly possess experience and knowledge that can continue to be applied in social life, and family and community development must provide environments allowing them to remain active and contribute according to their abilities.
The government demonstrated its commitment by inviting dozens of elderly citizens as honored guests to Indonesia's 81st Independence Day ceremony at the ministry headquarters in East Jakarta on Monday, August 17, 2026. The event is part of the SIDAYA program, which encourages seniors to remain active and empowered in society. Officials said the program aims to keep the elderly healthy, independent, and capable rather than dependent solely on family or government support.
Setiyono said the inclusion of seniors in the independence celebration carries symbolic meaning, honoring those who have contributed to the nation throughout their lives and strengthening intergenerational connections. He noted that the presence of elderly citizens at the ceremony could serve as a bridge to transmit nationalism values to younger generations.
The shift in approach also reflects Indonesia's preparation for the economic impacts of an aging population. Officials noted that growing demand for healthcare services, products, and employment opportunities for seniors could shape a "silver economy." The government prepared elderly-friendly facilities for the ceremony, including shaded areas, seating, medical staff, and ambulances, as part of broader efforts to create supportive environments that allow seniors to participate safely in social activities while improving their quality of life.
