Jakarta to build meeting places for the elderly

Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung Wibowo has stated that his administration will immediately prepare dedicated gathering places for elderly residents in the capital, as such meetings can enhance self-confidence and productivity. “Indeed, gatherings like that lead to a long life, making one feel useful and productive,” Pramono explained during the 30th National Elderly Day commemoration in 2026 at Jakarta Bird Land, Gelanggang Samudra Ancol, Pademangan, North Jakarta, on Tuesday. Pramono noted that the Jakarta Provincial Government had previously prepared a location for elderly gatherings in the capital. However, that site was ultimately used for a community school. Therefore, the Jakarta Government will soon prepare a new location for elderly meeting places. Currently, Pramono said, Jakarta is home to approximately 1.16 million elderly people, or 10.6 percent of the total population. Approaching its fifth centenary, Pramono believes Jakarta must grow into a city that can be enjoyed by all age groups. To achieve this, collaboration is needed between the government, families, the Elderly Communication Forum, communities, businesses, health workers, and the public. He added that attention to the elderly involves not only providing services and assistance but also maintaining their hope and zest for life. “The key is that the elderly in Jakarta feel they have hope. Someone who has hope is usually more enthusiastic about living,” he said.