Challenging Conscience Behind the Daycare Violence Tragedy

There is one question related to the violence case at Little Aresha daycare that leaves the Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Sri Sultan Hamengku Buwono X, both puzzled and deeply affected. The question is simple yet piercing: why would a woman, who is naturally endowed with a mother’s nurturing instinct, be so cruel as to commit violence against the children entrusted to her? Women and mothers have long been regarded as symbols of gentleness. We believe there is a “natural instinct” within a woman that automatically makes her protect, embrace, and care for children. “I’m astonished that (the violence) was carried out by mothers. Doesn’t she have her own children? Treating underage children like that,” said the Sultan when met at the Kepatihan Complex, Yogyakarta, on Wednesday (29/4/2026). The childcare facility in Yogyakarta was raided by police on Friday (24/4/2026) due to cases of child violence and neglect. Yogyakarta Police have named 13 suspects, 11 of whom are caregivers at the unlicensed daycare. “I don’t understand who these people are. Well, if it’s men, perhaps, but the mothers themselves are committing such violence,” said the Sultan. According to the Sultan, an institution operating without official permission is bound to bring problems in the future. Therefore, the Sultan also stressed that a commitment to sincere service can only be guaranteed if an institution dares to pursue clear legality.