Doraemon Removed From RCTI After 30+ Years on Air

For generations of Indonesian viewers, Sunday mornings were closely linked with the adventures of a blue robotic cat. That tradition has now come to an unexpected end. The popular Japanese anime Doraemon is no longer being broadcast on Indonesian television channel Rajawali Citra Televisi Indonesia (RCTI) after more than 30 years on air.

The anime, which tells the story of a robotic cat from the 22nd century helping the clumsy schoolboy Nobita Nobi, has been missing from RCTI’s programming schedule since the end of December 2025. Its sudden removal has left fans shocked and emotional, with many demanding an explanation.

As of now, RCTI has not released any official statement regarding the decision to drop Doraemon from its line-up. Since Sunday, January 4, 2026, the channel’s social media pages have been flooded with comments from disappointed viewers. Many fans say Doraemon was the main reason they watched RCTI every week.

On Instagram, several users openly requested the anime’s return. One fan wrote, “Please re-air Doraemon on RCTI.” Another commented, “Since Doraemon stopped airing, RCTI feels boring.” Many echoed similar emotions, highlighting the show’s deep emotional connection with audiences.

Adding to the discussion, a verified Instagram account, Catatan Film, shared broadcast data stating that Doraemon was absent from RCTI’s schedule between December 29, 2025, and January 4, 2026, according to the RCTI+ website. The post also noted that Doraemon movies had been rarely aired in recent months.

Doraemon first appeared on Indonesian television in the early 1990s and quickly became a cultural icon. For many families, 8:00 am on Sundays was dedicated to watching Doraemon and Nobita’s adventures, which often carried messages about friendship, responsibility, and perseverance.

The show’s disappearance has also sparked conversations on X (formerly Twitter). The account @indoPopBase stated that Doraemon had officially ended its long run on RCTI, capturing the sense of loss felt by long-time viewers.

Originally aired in Japan on TV Asahi in 1979, Doraemon has seen several adaptations over the years. Its mix of science fiction, humour, and everyday life lessons helped it connect with audiences of all ages, making it more than just a children’s cartoon in Indonesia.