Yogyakarta Daycare Case, Kemen PPPA Pushes for Strengthening Childcare Regulations

The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (Kemen PPPA) has expressed deep concern following allegations of abuse at the Little Aresha daycare in Yogyakarta. This incident has prompted the ministry to advocate for a more robust regulatory framework governing community-based childcare services, including daycares and other childminding facilities.

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We support the efforts of law enforcement to conduct further investigations transparently and justly.

Indra Gunawan, the Acting Deputy for Special Child Protection at Kemen PPPA, emphasized that any form of violence against children is an unacceptable and serious violation. The ministry fully supports law enforcement's transparent and just investigation into the matter. Kemen PPPA is actively coordinating with local child protection agencies in Yogyakarta to provide initial assessments and necessary psychological and legal support to the victims and their families.

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A legal umbrella is needed that regulates care, especially community-based care.

Beyond addressing the immediate case, Kemen PPPA views this incident as a critical opportunity to strengthen childcare regulations. While the government has developed standards for child-friendly care through programs like 'Taman Asuh Ramah Anak' (Child-Friendly Care Gardens), their implementation needs wider dissemination to regional governments. Current data reveals a substantial increase in the demand for daycare services, with approximately 75% of Indonesian families utilizing alternative childcare. However, a significant gap exists in service quality, with a concerning 44% of daycares operating without permits and only 30.7% holding operational licenses. Furthermore, a majority of daycare staff lack certification, and many facilities lack standard operating procedures, underscoring the urgent need for improved oversight and regulation.

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We have developed standards for child-friendly care through child-friendly care gardens, which still need to be further socialized to regency/city governments.