RRI.CO.ID, - Jakarta - Indonesia's Minister for the Protection of Migrant Workers (P2MI), Mukhtarudin, delivered a special message at the observance of the 42nd National Children's Day (HAN) on Thursday, 23 July 2026. He highlighted the importance of protecting children's growth and development, particularly those of Indonesian migrant workers, in line with the national theme "Love Children, Protect, and Build the Future."

In his statement in Jakarta, Minister Mukhtarudin emphasized that migrant workers' children often face emotional and social challenges when their parents work abroad. Therefore, the government involvement and the community in providing love and a safe space to grow up is considered crucial.

He added that it is our shared responsibility to ensure that these children grow up happy, protected, and fully entitled to their rights, even while their parents are struggling abroad. "Children are the future of the nation, including the children of our foreign exchange heroes," said Minister Mukhtarudin.

Responding to the main campaign of National Children's Day 2026, which encourages children to return to active play, Minister Mukhtarudin expressed his full support for the movement to limit excessive screen time. He also encouraged physical interaction through traditional games and sports as a substitute for digital screen time.

According to him, play is a fundamental right of children that should not be replaced by digital screens. Active play is considered vital in supporting optimal child growth and development, from honing motor skills to stimulating creativity.

In addition to the physical benefits, Minister Mukhtarudin stated that direct interaction between peers during play is an effective means of shaping children's character. These activities also strengthen social sensitivity, empathy, and the ability to work together.

He considered this support crucial for creating a warm, safe, and loving play environment for children whose parents work abroad. "Especially for the children of migrant workers, the presence of support from caregivers and extended family at home is key," said Minister Mukhtarudin.

The Ministry of P2MI is committed to strengthening empowerment and support programs for migrant worker families in their hometowns. This step was taken to ensure that the education, health, and mental health of the children of Indonesian migrant workers remain guaranteed in the future.