Indonesia Promotes Traditional Games to Reduce Children’s Screen Time
The Indonesian government has called for the revival and wider promotion of traditional games to reduce children’s dependence on digital devices and social media. Arifatul Choiri Fauzi, Minister of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection, stated that rather than directly banning children’s use of technology, alternatives that encourage physical activity and social interaction should be developed.
Speaking at the 42nd National Children’s Day event held in Tanjungpinang, Riau Islands, Fauzi said that traditional games reflecting local culture could serve as an important tool for balancing the amount of time children spend in front of screens. Since 2025, Indonesia’s Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection has highlighted traditional games as one of the central themes of National Children’s Day activities in an effort to reduce the negative effects of excessive social media use on children.
Minister Fauzi emphasized that traditional games are not merely a form of entertainment. They also teach children important values and skills, including cooperation, taking turns, mutual respect, creativity, and acting together as a group. She further noted that such games create opportunities for children to communicate face-to-face and participate in physical activities.
As part of the event, the Indonesian Children’s Forum gathered the demands and expectations of children from all 38 provinces and compiled them into 12 key recommendations. The ministry announced that it would evaluate these recommendations by discussing the challenges faced by children directly with them. Officials stated that National Children’s Day activities should go beyond symbolic celebrations. They aim to raise public awareness of the importance of guiding children in navigating the risks and challenges of the digital age.