The bill is expected to become a new breakthrough to produce regulations that can protect, empower, and build allyship toward mothers and children, she noted.
This could lead to the creation of a healthy, educated generation with good moral character, she added.
The formulation of the bill aligns with the five priority issues of the Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Ministry, specifically the second priority issue, which is bolstering the role of mothers and families in childcare.
If the bill is ratified, the realization of the second priority issue can be expedited, Puspayoga said.
Children's development is determined by parenting, hence the physical and mental health of mothers, who play an important role in childcare, must be ensured in domestic and public spaces, she added.
The minister also voiced support for a statement issued by House of Representatives (DPR) Speaker Puan Maharani underlining the importance of helping children thrive in a guided and sustainable manner.
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This should become a collective effort undertaken by the central government, regional governments, and the people to fulfill mothers’ and children's basic needs.
Earlier, Maharani had stressed that there are a number of basic rights that mothers must enjoy, such as the right to health services, health insurance during pregnancy, as well as special treatment and facilities.
The bill is also closely related to reproductive health education as well as efforts to reduce the incidence of stunting and advance women through involvement in the public space.
It also shows how mothers can be made to feel safe, comfortable, and protected from every kind of violence and discrimination, including in the workplace, she noted.
The bill is a part of the 2022 Priority National Legislation Program (Prolegnas), and discussion on the bill is expected to be completed in 2022.
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Translator: Anita Permata D, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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