Bappenas makes a big prediction: Indonesia is expected to aging faster than Japan. Bappenas and other ministries and institutes surveyed Indonesia’s 2020-2025 population forecast.
Acting Deputy for Population and Employment at Bappenas Maliki said, “Consistently, Indonesia’s projections indicate that the aging process will occur relatively faster compared to Japan.” Wednesday (4/10/2023)’s Utilization of Population Projections in Commemoration of the Elderly Day discussion revealed this.
Understanding Aging Population Metrics
Internationally, the elderly are 65 and older. An aging population begins when this demography reaches 7% of the population.
Maliki said that Indonesia’s population is aging faster than Japan’s. Indonesia may reach 7% old population in 21 years, while Japan took 25.
“We need 21 years to go from 7% to 14%, while Japan needs 25,” he said.
Early Indonesian Population Aging
Early population in Indonesia must be addressed, according to Maliki. Indonesia Emas 2045 seeks to improve the nation by 2045.
By maximizing productive-age population, this ambitious goal harnesses the demographic bonus. A large number of working-age persons are needed to reach this goal.
Presidential Regulation No. 88 of 2021 on the National Strategy for Aging provides preemptive measures, he says. This rule strengthens social protection services and promotes elderly-friendly communities.
“May this opportune moment enhance our commitment to prepare an advanced, prosperous, and just Indonesia as we approach the 100th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence in 2045,” Maliki said.
Accelerated Aging in Indonesia
Japan-Comparing Aging Rates
Indonesia’s rapid aging is notable, especially compared to Japan’s old population. Maliki’s announcement that Indonesia will beat Japan in a quicker timeline to reach 7% elderly is a major demographic shift.
Japan, known for its aging population, reached 7% after 25 years. Indonesia is expected to reach this milestone in 21 years. This comparison highlights Indonesia’s fast demographic change.
Challenges and Chances
Early aging in Indonesia brings challenges and opportunities. The country wants to be developed by 2045, therefore tackling this demographic transition is crucial.
The demographic bonus, or “youth bulge,” is crucial to Indonesia’s growth plan. Indonesia must use its productive-age population, which makes up its workforce, to achieve the Indonesia Emas 2045 vision.
The challenge is turning this demographic dividend into economic development and prosperity. To do this, the government must establish effective policies and initiatives to use its young and growing workforce.
Govt initiatives
In response to population shifts, the Indonesian government has taken action. Presidential Regulation No. 88 of 2021, the National Strategy for Aging, addresses aging population issues in a comprehensive manner.
This policy promotes healthy, strengthens social protection services for the aged, and creates age-friendly settings. It also stresses intergenerational unity and recognizes elderly people’s contributions to society.
Vision for the Future
Indonesia faces the challenges of an aging population with a brighter future. We remain committed to building a developed, rich, and just nation by 2045.
Current demographic trends are part of a longer story of transformation, resilience, and adaptability. Indonesia’s future depends on its youth and elderly population.
Maliki said, “May this opportune moment enhance our commitment to prepare an advanced, prosperous, and just Indonesia as we approach the 100th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence in 2045.” Demographic pressures and Indonesia’s relentless progress drive the nation’s bright future.
