Indonesia, April 16 -- 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 amo...