“The Balikpapan Children's Festival is not just a celebration, but a momentum to strengthen the spirit, creativity, and future of our children. Children are not merely objects of protection —they are key subjects whose rights must be fulfilled. They are agents of change who can contribute to their environment and city,” Fauzi said in a statement in Jakarta on Sunday.
Fauzi explained that the concept of a Child-Friendly City is rooted in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, which affirms every child’s right to grow and develop optimally, be protected from violence, and meaningfully participate in development.
A child-friendly city ensures the fulfillment of children’s basic rights, including access to education, healthcare, safe play areas, child-friendly public facilities, and a supportive environment.
Meanwhile, the Expert Staff for Social Affairs, Welfare, and Human Resource Development, Adamin Siregar, stated that children are a valuable national asset who must be nurtured, protected, and given space to grow.
“The Balikpapan Children's Festival serves as a platform for children to express themselves, be creative, explore their talents, and build self-confidence. The children of Balikpapan are a remarkable generation, ready to carry the torch of national development toward Indonesia Emas 2045,” said Siregar.
He reaffirmed the Balikpapan City Government’s commitment to implementing child-friendly policies.
These efforts include improving access to education and healthcare, developing child-friendly green public spaces, strengthening programs to protect children from violence, bullying, and discrimination, and enhancing platforms for child participation.
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Translator: Anita, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Arie Novarina
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