She delivered the message during a run event titled "Run to Hero: Fathers' Involvement in Cheering Up Children" in Jakarta on Sunday. The event gathered 1,250 participants to promote the role of fathers in daily parenting practices.
"The role of a father goes beyond supporting mothers; they serve as the foundation for balanced childcare. Today, through 'Run to Hero,' we see fathers being present, running, and becoming models for their children," Oka said.
While participating in the run, she emphasized that fathers share the responsibility of helping the nation nurture a generation of quality talents by working with mothers to ensure a safe and supportive environment for children’s physical and mental development.
The deputy minister highlighted that both mothers and fathers play essential roles in fulfilling children’s needs for affection, care, education, and nutrition. Focusing on fathers, she noted that their presence can enhance children’s cognitive growth and help them develop discipline and confidence.
She pointed out that the government’s 2025 Family Data shows that 25.8 percent of families, or one in four households, are in a condition of fatherlessness. The concerning trend, she said, has driven the government to increase its attention to family development programs.
Oka explained that "Run to Hero" is not merely a sports activity but a platform to raise broader public awareness of the importance of balancing the roles of mothers and fathers in nurturing children.
"Let today's run be a stimulus for us all to become heroes of our families," she said, urging citizens to begin with simple and consistent daily actions to strengthen family relationships.
She further underscored the need for parents to work together in spending quality time with their children, ensuring proper health and nutrition, monitoring growth and development, guiding responsible use of gadgets, and fostering a respectful and loving home environment.
"If every family implements these steps, I am confident that Indonesia will produce a generation of healthy, smart, strong, characterful, and competitive talents," she said.
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Translator: Lintang B, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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