Senator Agita Partners with the Elderly to Gather Public Feedback

18 June 2026 oleh admin

dpd.go.id Bandung – A member of Committee III of the House of Regional Representatives (DPD) of the Republic of Indonesia (RI) representing the West Java (Jabar) constituency, Agita Nurfianti, held a public consultation event to gather community feedback alongside the Indonesian Elderly Institute on Thursday (18/6) in Lengkong District, Bandung. The event was held under the theme "Fulfilling Citizens' Basic Rights According to the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia," focusing on issues ranging from child protection, education, public services, and the rights of persons with disabilities, to elderly welfare.

In her opening remarks, Agita Nurfianti emphasized that every citizen including children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly holds constitutional rights that the state is obligated to fulfill, as mandated by the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia. "The state must be present to ensure that every citizen receives their rights, starting from education, social protection, and healthcare services, to equal opportunities in community life," Agita stated.

According to her, the elderly population is currently continuing to rise. This condition serves as an indicator of successful development in the fields of health and welfare. On the flip side, however, we must also ensure that the elderly gain access to quality healthcare services, adequate social security, elderly-friendly environments, as well as strong family and community support.

"This momentum should serve as a reminder for all of us to increasingly appreciate the services of our parents and elders. The values of patience, hard work, mutual cooperation (gotong royong), and a love for the nation modeled by previous generations must continue to be passed down to the next generation," she said.

During the dialogue forum, community members shared various aspirations regarding child protection, particularly the management of neglected children and the importance of tracking down school dropouts so they can return to education through the Free School program, the Program Indonesia Pintar (PIP / Smart Indonesia Program), and the Kartu Indonesia Pintar (KIP / Smart Indonesia Card). Furthermore, the public highlighted the existence of the Sekolah Maung Education Program as an educational innovation. Responding to this, Agita expressed her appreciation for the various inputs provided.

"I would like to say thank you for all the feedback that has been shared. This will serve as evaluation material for next year, considering that this program is still relatively new. Even so, other schools also need to maintain their flagship classes," Agita noted. Another issue that came to light was the Free Nutritious Meal (Makan Bergizi Gratis / MBG) program for the elderly and stunting prevention efforts among vulnerable age groups, which were deemed in need of greater attention within social policy.

During the discussion session on the rights and obligations of citizens, Agita stressed the importance of prioritizing obligations as the foundation for acquiring rights.

"When we talk about rights and obligations, obligations must be carried out first. From there, rights will follow as a consequence of a well-functioning system," she explained.

The forum also discussed the importance of public services at the district level. Agita asserted that districts have an obligation to serve the public, while the community has a right to receive good, fast, and fair service.

Not only that, discussions surrounding freedom of speech also drew attention, during which Agita emphasized that freedom of expression is a constitutional right that must be protected, as long as it is carried out responsibly.

In the context of employment, Agita also highlighted the importance of providing an equal share for persons with disabilities in the workforce as a tangible form of social justice and equal opportunity.

Closing the event, Agita reaffirmed her commitment to continue fighting for elderly welfare, considering that the older population is an important part of national development that has contributed immensely to the country.

"The elderly are a source of wisdom, experience, and role modeling. Their welfare must become a shared concern for the government, families, and communities alike," she expressed.

"To the elderly, my message is to keep maintaining your health, stay active according to your abilities, keep your spirits up, and continue to be role models for our children and grandchildren. The presence and advice of all of you mean a great deal to families and the community," she added.

The event was attended by the Head of Lengkong District, Wiwit Afiantoro, village heads (lurah) from across the Lengkong District, community leaders, as well as elderly members belonging to the Indonesian Elderly Institute across Lengkong District, Bandung.

Through this consultation session, Agita gathered various inputs, hopes, and issues faced by the community. The aspirations shared will be followed up for discussion at the central level in Jakarta and will serve as vital material in advocating for policies that are more supportive of the public, particularly the elderly.