Indonesia enters ageing population phase, prompting welfare policy discussions

Indonesia has officially entered an ageing population phase, with the proportion of citizens aged 60 and older reaching 11.97 percent according to 2025 Intercensal Population Survey results.

Ketut Kariyasa Adnyana, a member of the DPR RI Legislative Body, emphasized the need for a comprehensive policy system to ensure the elderly can live healthy, safe, and dignified lives. This demographic shift is driving discussions regarding the Elderly Welfare Bill (RUU Kesejahteraan Lanjut Usia).

Projections from BPS suggest that by 2045, the elderly population could reach approximately 20 percent of the total population, or one in five Indonesians. Adnyana noted that the legislative process should shift the paradigm of elderly care from mere social assistance for the underprivileged to recognizing the elderly as citizens with rights, potential, and opportunities to participate in social life.