Indonesian President Pledges Daycare Facilities for Industrial Workers

Jakarta, Indonesia – President Prabowo Subianto has made a significant commitment to address the needs of working mothers by promising to establish daycare facilities within industrial zones across Indonesia. Tempo reports on the President's pledge, made during the International Labor Day (May Day) celebrations at the National Monument (Monas) on Friday, May 1, 2026. This initiative directly responds to calls from labor unions for government support in providing accessible childcare for the nation's workforce.

“

Tadi disampaikan bahwa buruh perlu tempat penitipan anak, daycare. Ini saran yang baik. Ini akan kita perjuangkan

The proposal for dedicated daycares in industrial areas was articulated by Ilhamsyah, the Chairman of the Confederation of Indonesian Workers' Unions (Konfederasi Persatuan Buruh Indonesia), during his address prior to President Prabowo's speech. Ilhamsyah emphasized the daily struggles faced by many laborers in finding safe and reliable places to leave their children while they are at work, underscoring the importance of such facilities for the well-being and development of children from working-class families.

President Prabowo, who also leads the Gerindra Party, acknowledged the suggestion as a valuable one and vowed to champion its implementation. "This is a good suggestion, we will fight for it, we will implement it as soon as possible," he stated from the podium, signaling a swift governmental response. This commitment reflects a broader recognition of the challenges faced by the labor sector and a move towards inclusive policies that support families.

“

Ini saran yang baik, ini akan kita perjuangkan ini akan kita laksanakan dalam waktu sesingkat-singkatnya

From an Indonesian perspective, this announcement is particularly resonant. While international coverage might frame it as a standard labor policy, for us, it represents a tangible step towards improving the lives of millions of workers and their families. The presence of President Prabowo at a celebratory May Day event, rather than a protest, also signifies a shift in how labor issues are being addressed. The establishment of industrial daycares is not just about convenience; it's about empowering women in the workforce, ensuring children receive proper care and development, and ultimately contributing to a more productive and equitable society. This is a story that highlights the government's responsiveness to grassroots demands and its commitment to the welfare of the Indonesian labor force.

“

Kami berharap negara hadir untuk membuat daycare di tempat-tempat kawasan-kawasan industri, di pemukiman-pemukiman buruh, agar anak-anak buruh bisa hidup layak, agar anak-anak buruh bisa tumbuh kembang dengan baik