Menduk Proud Wihaji Responds To Childfree Phenomenon And Fear Of Getting Married In Indonesia

Berduk bangga Wihaji Tanggapi Phenomenon Childfree (Adelia/VOI)

JAKARTA - The Minister of Population and Family Development/Head of BKKBN, Wihaji, gave his views regarding the childfree phenomenon (marriage without children) and the fear of getting married which has recently become a topic of conversation in Indonesian society.

According to him, this phenomenon is still classified as a minority and is influenced by various complex factors. This was revealed by Wihaji during the year-end Reflection at the Office of the Ministry of Education and Culture/BKKBN.

"Those who are not married, I believe it is only a wish. I am an Indonesian, I believe the culture, it is just a wish, not necessarily done," said Wihaji, when met at Jl Permata No.1, East Jakarta on Tuesday, December 31, 2024.

He added that the concept of childfree, namely a married couple who chooses not to have children, is still considered a phenomenon that has not expanded in Indonesia.

"One or two there are so-called childfree. If childfree gets married but doesn't want to have children. I think it's a phenomenon, but it's still a phenomenon," he explained.

Wihaji also highlighted the fear of getting married that some people feel. According to him, this fear is often groundless or social construction.

"That's why it might be scared. What is it? The economy. Afraid to get married because of this. Try if we say 'it's okay'. This fear is made up," he explained.

He emphasized that although the anxiety exists, it is important to understand the cause in order to provide the right solution.

Wihaji identified three main factors that caused the fear of getting married and the decision not to have children, namely economy, career and culture.

"There are 3 causes, one economy, two careers, three cultures. There is a cultural shift that shifts happiness. In the past, having happy children, now with dolls or having dogs can be happy, this shifts happiness," he said.

In addition to economic and cultural factors, Wihaji also highlighted the existence of personal experiences that affect a person's decision to be childfree or not to get married.

"Usually there are causes, events. Maybe he has been hurt, traumatized, often tricked by his partner, false hopes, there are injuries. This is why, we analyze for us to solve the cause." he said.

Wihaji emphasized that the government and society need to be present to provide support and solutions to this problem. By understanding the root of the problem, it is hoped that the phenomenon of marriage fear and childfree decisions can be managed with a wiser and more inclusive approach.