Problematic "Daycare", "Tamasya" Programme Strengthens Child Protection

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga)/BKKBN is committed to continuously strengthening the child protection system in response to problematic childcare facility (TPA) or daycare cases that occurred in Yogyakarta, and most recently in Aceh.

The Secretary of Kemendukbangga/BKKBN, Budi Setiyono, stated that Kemendukbangga/BKKBN has the Taman Asuh Sayang Anak (Tamasya) Programme to strengthen the child care ecosystem in Indonesia.

“That programme emphasises a holistic approach based on family and community, covering aspects of childcare, nutrition, health, and child growth and development stimulation,” he said in Jakarta on Wednesday.

Budi expressed deep concern over the violence cases that occurred at those daycares, which have become a serious concern as well as an important momentum to accelerate the strengthening of the child protection system in Indonesia.

“Nevertheless, it must be emphasised that this case is not a general reflection of all daycare services in Indonesia. In fact, this incident shows that the supervision and law enforcement systems are functioning, so violations can be uncovered and addressed firmly,” he said.

Budi added that the government continues to ensure that the legal process is proceeding transparently and fairly.

“In addition, we are also continuing to encourage improvements in daycare service quality through the development of national standards for early childhood care, enhancing the capacity and training for caregivers, strengthening cross-ministry and regional government coordination, as well as expanding access to safe and affordable daycare services,” Budi stated.

Meanwhile, the Yogyakarta Special Region Local Government (Pemda DIY) has ensured optimal handling for the children as well as the parents of victims in the violence and neglect case at Daycare Little Aresha in Yogyakarta City.

“The handling must be as optimal as possible for both the children who are victims and their parents,” said the Head of the Women’s Empowerment, Child Protection, and Population Control Agency (DP3AP2) of DIY, Erlina Hidayati Sumardi, in Yogyakarta on Wednesday.

According to her, this is in line with the instructions from the Governor of DIY, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, who directed the handling and protection for the 53 victim children from the daycare. It not only targets the children’s physical condition but also the mental state of the affected parents.

In particular, the parents of the daycare case victims are certainly experiencing psychological pressures, feelings of guilt, and concerns about their children’s growth, development, and physical health.