Deputy Minister of Human Rights Emphasises Protection of Children's Rights to Express Aspirations in Kudus
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Deputy Minister of Human Rights Mugiyanto emphasised the importance of protecting children’s rights and freedom of expression, following the expression of aspirations by a student regarding the Free Nutritious Meals (MBG) programme in Kudus Regency, Central Java.
During an audience with the Kudus Regency Government and coordination at SMK Nurul Fatah on Thursday (23/4), Mugiyanto stated that the expression of opinion by the student named Arsya constitutes constructive public participation.
“From a human rights perspective, freedom of expression is a fundamental right guaranteed by the constitution and various international instruments. Therefore, the state is obliged to ensure protection of Arsya’s physical and mental integrity, including from potential intimidation or pressure,” said the Deputy Minister of Human Rights in his statement in Jakarta on Friday.
According to him, the courage of the 17-year-old student reflects healthy democratic practices because it was conveyed politely and does not contain elements of hatred or legal violations.
Mugiyanto added that the government, through the Ministry of Human Rights, opens channels for reporting if there is potential threat to the safety or freedom of individuals expressing aspirations.
“The Ministry of Human Rights is obliged to ensure protection of Arsya’s physical and mental integrity so that there is no intimidation, threats, or pressure over the opinion that has been expressed. If there are intimidatory actions, they can be reported to the Ministry of Human Rights for follow-up together with relevant agencies,” he said.
On the other hand, he explained that the Free Nutritious Meals programme is part of efforts to fulfil children’s right to nutritious food, especially for vulnerable groups.
The government also remains committed to improving teacher welfare as part of strengthening education quality.
Mugiyanto emphasised that both agendas run in parallel within the framework of fulfilling economic, social, and cultural rights, so they do not need to be opposed.
The Kudus Regency Government is said to have provided accompaniment to Arsya and his family since early April 2026 to ensure safe and conducive conditions.
The school side also ensures that the educational environment remains inclusive and supports the students’ learning process.
Through these steps, the Ministry of Human Rights encourages strengthening safe dialogue spaces in educational environments and improving public communication so that society understands nutrition fulfilment policies and education quality improvement as complementary efforts.
This commitment is part of the implementation of respect, protection, fulfilment, enforcement, and advancement of human rights, especially in protecting children’s rights in educational spaces.