The BKKBN Secretary, Budi Setiyono, during a socialization of the Taman Asuh Sayang Anak (Tamasya) childcare program on Monday, said that such investment is part of efforts to leverage Indonesia’s demographic bonus by optimizing the productive-age population to support national development.
"Every $1 invested in quality early childhood programs can generate a return of $7, a sevenfold increase in social and economic benefits in the future," he emphasized.
According to Setiyono, investing in early childhood development helps reduce economic deficits and strengthen growth through improved productivity and educational outcomes.
“It can strengthen the economy, enhance school success and life outcomes, and reduce social costs for at-risk children - such as those who may engage in criminal behavior - if they are not properly educated,” he explained.
He further noted that early childhood investment is one of the most effective and efficient strategies for driving sustainable economic growth.
As part of its commitment to developing high-quality human resources, the BKKBN launched the Tamasya program, a childcare initiative offering four core services namely ensuring caregiver quality, strengthening the family’s role in childcare, monitoring child growth and development, and providing referral services when needed.
To date, he informed that there are 3,202 certified Tamasya centers across Indonesia.
Citing studies from various developed countries, Setiyono said that investing in childcare facilities can increase women’s labor force participation by 10 to 20 percent.
“Currently, women’s labor force participation in Indonesia stands at 35 percent. Through the Tamasya childcare program, we aim to raise that figure by up to 20 percent,” he concluded.
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Translator: Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Primayanti
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