Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s Ministry of Manpower on Thursday called on businesses to expand job opportunities for older workers, citing the country’s rapidly ageing population and untapped labor potential.In a statement issued in Jakarta, Estiarty Haryani, acting director general for job placement and employment expansion at the ministry, said inclusive labor policies are needed to better utilize older workers’ skills and experience.Data from Statistics Indonesia (BPS) show the elderly population is projected to reach about 11.93 percent of the total in 2025, rising in line with longer life expectancy and signaling Indonesia’s shift toward an ageing society.Despite this trend, labor force participation among older workers remains relatively low compared with prime-age groups, highlighting significant unused capacity in the workforce.The ministry said its programs focus on expanding inclusive access to jobs for older workers, ensuring policies move beyond formal frameworks, and developing sustainable placement and empowerment models that can be replicated nationwide.Estiarty said building an inclusive labor ecosystem requires coordination across sectors, including government agencies, businesses, academia, communities, media and development partners.“Collaboration is key so that policies are not only implementable but also deliver real impact on the ground,” she said.The ministry is drafting a regulation on the placement and empowerment of special worker groups, including older workers, to strengthen legal frameworks and improve access to decent jobs.The regulation is expected to provide clearer guidelines for employers while enhancing protections and opportunities for elderly workers.