TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia's Deputy Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA), Veronica Tan, emphasized the importance of using children's voices as the basis for developing child protection policies and programs. According to her, the government needs to listen directly to children's aspirations so that policies are tailored to their needs.
"We want to hear children's aspirations directly. No child should be left behind because every child has the right to benefit from development," Veronica said during the SAPA Exploration event at the West Cakung Rusunawa, East Jakarta, in mid-July 2026, as quoted by Antara.
During the event, Veronica engaged in dialogue with approximately 90 children regarding access to education, play spaces, and child protection services in their neighborhoods. She also encouraged the children to practice polite behavior when speaking with their parents, listening to their daily activities, asking about their aspirations, and accepting various input for the government.
The SAPA Exploration was part of a series of events commemorating the 42nd National Children's Day (HAN) in 2026. SAPA is an acronym for Sambang (Visit), Ajak (Invite), Pantau (Monitor), and Apresiasi (Appreciate). This program provides a platform for direct dialogue between the government and children to gather their aspirations and monitor the fulfillment of children's rights and protection in various regions.
According to Veronica, this activity also provides a means for the government to directly observe the condition of child protection services on the ground and strengthen coordination with local governments and various stakeholders.
She urged all parties to strengthen collaboration through the implementation of the National Movement for Safe and Comfortable Spaces for Children (Gernas RANA). This program aims to encourage synergy between the government, communities, businesses, media, families, and various stakeholders in creating a safe, comfortable, friendly, and inclusive environment for children.
"I urge all parties to continue to provide an environment free from all forms of violence, exploitation, discrimination, and neglect. Let's ensure that every child has equal opportunities to grow, learn, play, and achieve their dreams. Child protection is not solely the government's responsibility, but the responsibility of all elements of society," said Veronica.
She added that children need adequate support to develop their potential and realize their dreams. According to her, children's needs are basically simple: a space to play, a safe environment, and a space for expression.
Veronica stated that the aspirations expressed by the children, including the need for a play area and futsal field in the West Cakung Rusunawa (Runawa), will provide input for the government in strengthening the provision of child-friendly facilities.
Meeting Children's Nutrition
On the same occasion, the Association of Nutritional Products for Mothers and Children (APPNIA) emphasized that meeting nutritional needs is a crucial part of efforts to fulfill children's rights to grow, develop, and receive comprehensive protection.
APPNIA Executive Director Poppy Kumala said that the commemoration of National Children's Day is a momentum to remind us of the importance of creating an environment that supports children's growth and development.
"In addition to protection and a safe space for learning and play, meeting nutritional needs is a crucial foundation for children to grow healthily, develop optimally, and have the opportunity to achieve their dreams," said Poppy.
According to her, APPNIA continues to strengthen education about the importance of nutrition for the public while encouraging research-based innovation by its member companies. These efforts, she said, aim to ensure that children's nutritional needs are met according to each stage of their development.
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