"I appreciate the leadership of the Indonesian government and thank you all for your dedication to advancing literacy," she said at the Celebration of Non-Formal and Informal Education and the Commemoration of International Literacy Day 2025 at the Ministry here on Friday.
Maki explained that the latest data from the UNESCO Institute of Statistics shows that the literacy rate of Indonesian adults aged 15 and above is around 96 percent, and even higher.
For young people aged 15 to 24, she continued, the literacy rate is almost universal, approaching 100 percent.
"Congratulations. This is a remarkable achievement. It reflects decades of leadership by the Indonesian government, the dedication of teachers, the perseverance of learners, and the involvement of communities across the country," she said.
However, Maki revealed that there are still a number of challenges in efforts to create a society with a better level of literacy.
She said there are at least four things that need to be done, including expanding access to technology and connectivity.
Next is supporting and empowering teachers and educators, developing inclusive and context-relevant curricula, and strengthening lifelong learning opportunities.
"Let us renew our commitment to this vision. Let us continue investing in people, in teachers, in digital innovation, and in innovative policies," she said.
"Let's work together to ensure that literacy is not only a right enshrined in law, but also a reality experienced by everyone in Indonesia," said Maki Katsuno-Hayashikawa.
On the same occasion, Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Atip Latipulhayat stated that over the past five years, Indonesia has collaboratively succeeded in reducing the illiteracy rate to 0.92 percent.
"Over the past five years, Indonesia has succeeded in reducing the illiteracy rate to just 0.92 percent. Let us be proud of this achievement," he said.
The deputy minister emphasized that this achievement was not the final target, as there were still a number of districts in Indonesia that required more serious efforts to eradicate illiteracy.
"The government is committed to not leaving any citizen behind," said the deputy minister.
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Translator: Sean Filo Muhamad, Katriana
Editor: Arie Novarina
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