Disabled Palm Oil Worker in North Sumatra Allegedly Sexually Assaulted, Case Reported to Komnas HAM

The National Commission on Human Rights (Komnas HAM) is investigating a complaint of alleged sexual violence against a female casual daily worker with hearing and speech disabilities employed at palm oil company PT USU in Mandailing Natal, North Sumatra. The commission is summoning several related parties to ensure the fulfilment of the victim’s rights. Komnas HAM Chairperson Anis Hidayah stated that the victim, a female casual daily worker, allegedly experienced sexual violence in November 2025. According to her, a report was filed with the local police two days after the incident, but the handling process is still ongoing. “It was conveyed that she has filed complaints with various parties, the local police, the Mandailing Natal Resort Police, the company, as well as several ministries and institutions. The legal process is proceeding quite slowly, indicating a delayed justice situation, which impacts justice for the victim,” Anis said. In addition to the legal process, Komnas HAM received information that the victim has not yet obtained a safe house from the Regional Technical Implementation Unit for the Protection of Women and Children (UPTD PPA) nor clinical psychological services. Komnas HAM also noted allegations of intimidation against the victim and her family that require further investigation. Anis stated that the victim worked under an informal employment relationship without a written contract. After filing the complaint about her case, the victim was reportedly no longer employed. “After the victim dared to speak out, she was dismissed and did not receive her rights,” she said. Komnas HAM will follow up on the report according to its authority under Law Number 39 of 1999 concerning Human Rights and the Sexual Violence Crime Law (TPKS). “As soon as possible, we will summon the parties, including the local police (Mandailing Natal Resort Police), the company PT USU, and related parties, so that this case can be expedited, handled, and the victim can obtain justice in accordance with her rights stipulated in the TPKS Law,” Anis said. Coordinator of the Palm Oil Workers Coalition Ismet Inoni expressed hope that the legal process can proceed optimally while also restoring the victim’s rights. “Firstly, legal justice for the victim. Secondly, the victim’s rights must be restored by the employer. Thirdly, there must be a protection system for women within the company,” Ismet said.