Deputy Minister for Population and Family Development, Ratu Ayu Isyana Bagoes Oka, emphasized the importance of parents staying informed about their children’s interests to prevent them from becoming addicted to games and gadgets. She highlighted the significance of encouraging physical activities like exercising together with children to steer them away from excessive screen time. Isyana shared this insight at the Double Check discussion on family development’s role in building a prosperous Indonesia in 2045, organized by the PCO and Gempita in Jakarta. She stressed the need for parents to keep up with technological advancements, as children tend to grasp new online platforms quickly. Isyana pointed out that children often seek instant gratification through social media or online games, leading to potential addiction issues. Encouraging outdoor activities and exposure to sunlight can also provide the brain with dopamine, thus countering the urge to constantly scroll or play online. Additionally, Deputy Minister Veronica Tan discussed the RBI program, aiming to create safe and creative spaces for women, children, and communities to empower and nurture creativity. Through initiatives like RBI, Tan hopes to engage children in physical and traditional games, diverting their focus from excessive gadget use. Verifying the importance of physical activity spaces in curbing children’s reliance on digital devices, the discussion shed light on practical solutions to address this growing concern.
