The discussion, which took place in Denpasar city, discussed efforts to empower the elderly through art, dance, educational, and craft groups, Bappenas' acting deputy for population and employment, Maliki, informed.
Such groups have been formed in Jember district, East Java, and in Denpasar city, Bali.
Maliki said that the discussion aimed to formulate good practices for inclusive, collaborative, and participatory empowerment programs for the elderly.
According to him, efforts to empower senior citizens are not only being undertaken by the government, but also by the community, the private sector, and academicians.
At the discussion, they presented art communities from Pedungan and Melinggih villages whose members comprise senior citizens.
"In 2021, the President (Joko Widodo) signed Governmental Regulation (PP) No. 88 of 2021, which stipulates the main strategy for preparing the elderly population," Maliki said.
All parties must increase old people's access to self-development programs, such as educational, cultural arts, and community activities, he added.
Therefore, he said, the discussion was organized on Friday to encourage strategies to empower elderly people.
Bappenas wants the elderly to be ready in terms of economy, education, social, and health so that they can also participate in contributing to development, he added.
The art communities from Pedungan village and Melinggih village are examples of how senior citizens can still take part in activities and be equal to other population groups, he added.
Meanwhile, policy planner at Bappenas' Directorate of Poverty Alleviation and Community Empowerment, Dinar Dana Kharisma, said that the elderly art community in Bali is a space for capacity-building of the elderly.
"Where we accept all residents that they have the same rights, space, and opportunities," he added.
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Translator: Muliantari, Kenzu
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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