Jakarta is moving forward with plans to provide a dedicated gathering space for its senior citizens, reaffirming the city government’s commitment to creating more inclusive public facilities for older residents. Although an earlier location had already been prepared, the site has since been reassigned to support another national priority.
Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung explained that the original venue is now being used for the People’s School (Sekolah Rakyat), one of President Prabowo Subianto’s flagship programs. According to him, the Jakarta Provincial Government has chosen to fully support the initiative by allocating the prepared location for the educational program.
“The location had already been prepared, but it is now being used for the People’s School. Since the People’s School is one of the President’s priority programs, we are giving it our full support here in Jakarta,” Pramono said.
Despite the change, he assured senior citizens that the plan has not been abandoned. The city administration is now searching for another suitable location where elderly residents can gather, socialize, and participate in community activities.
During the event, Pramono also shared a lighthearted moment while encouraging Jakarta Social Affairs Agency Head Iqbal Akbarudin to quickly find a replacement venue.
“I told Mr. Iqbal earlier, ‘Mr. Iqbal, if you don’t fulfill the request from our senior citizens, you’ll be cursed with bad luck. So please keep looking until you find a place where seniors in Jakarta can gather,'” he said.
Beyond plans for a dedicated meeting place, Pramono emphasized that improving the well-being of older residents remains one of the Jakarta Provincial Government’s ongoing priorities. The administration continues to expand programs designed to support seniors in various aspects of daily life.
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He highlighted several existing initiatives, including financial assistance through the Jakarta Elderly Card, free access to public transportation, healthcare services, and the Elderly School program, all of which are intended to help senior citizens remain active and enjoy a better quality of life.
According to Pramono, maintaining emotional well-being is just as important as providing practical assistance. He believes older adults should continue to feel valued, engaged, and connected to those around them.
“The most important thing for our senior citizens is that they continue to feel productive, happy, and above all, continue to receive love and care from their families,” he added.
The planned gathering place is expected to complement these existing programs by giving Jakarta’s elderly community a dedicated space to meet, build friendships, and take part in activities that encourage healthy, active, and socially connected aging.
