Indonesia Minister Promotes Fatherhood Program to Combat Rising Fatherless Children Rate

Minister Wihaji of Indonesia's Ministry of Population and Family Development personally observed the Gerakan Ayah Mengambil Rapor Anak ke Sekolah (GEMAR) program in Yogyakarta. This government-initiated program aims to increase fathers' involvement in child-rearing and education, tackling the significant issue of fatherless children across Indonesia.

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One of the issues that needs fixing is that 25 percent of our children are fatherless. What does that mean? Loss of a father figure.

Wihaji engaged with students and fathers at MAN 1 Yogyakarta, stressing the crucial role a father's presence plays in a child's development. He highlighted that approximately 25% of children nationwide lack a father figure, a situation not solely caused by death or divorce but also by fathers' extensive work hours leading to minimal interaction. The rise of technology, he noted, has exacerbated this, with children often interacting more with gadgets or AI than their parents.

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They actually miss touch. That's what's important, to be talked to. The main message I want to convey is, fathers, please make time to talk to your children. Because this fatherless issue is something I remind you of.

"They actually miss touch. That's what's important, to be talked to," Wihaji stated, urging fathers to dedicate time for conversations with their children. He stressed that a father's involvement in education significantly shapes a child's character, confidence, and motivation to learn. "A father's role cannot be replaced. A father's presence during important educational moments for a child is a long-term investment in building a healthy, resilient, and competitive generation," he added.

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A father's role cannot be replaced. A father's presence during important educational moments for a child is a long-term investment in building a healthy, resilient, and competitive generation.

The minister also reminded attendees that strong family foundations are essential for Indonesia's future. While GEMAR encourages paternal involvement, he clarified it does not exclude children without fathers, emphasizing that guidance is needed from all parties, including parents, as children return to the family unit. "I urge you, one hour a week with your child. Just one hour with your wife and child, do nothing else, talk freely," he advised.

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I urge you, one hour a week with your child. Just one hour with your wife and child, do nothing else, talk freely.