'Domestic violence now seen as a crime'

The main theme of this year's International Women's Day is the issue of HIV/AIDS, which is increasingly affecting women and girls. Another is the issue of domestic violence, a problem in all cultures. The Jakarta Post talked to some residents about the issue.

Katherina Soehadi, 28, is a consultant in a public relations firm in Kemang, South Jakarta. She lives in Kebayoran Baru:

I think husbands and children can also be victims of domestic violence besides wives. Such violence does not always come in the form of a physical assault but as emotional abuse.

The cause are many, from problems within the family to outside factors such as narcotics or alcohol, since consumers can be violent during inebriation or in withdrawal.

Even in this modern age, the victims still hide their problems in the closet, because they are embarrassed if others know they are being abused by family members.

I think social awareness is important in solving this problem. The more people are aware of what domestic violence is and how wrong it is, the closer we will get to a solution.

Uli Parulian Sihombing, in his 30s, is working for a legal aid organization located in Menteng, Central Jakarta. He lives in Kampung Melayu, East Jakarta:

Domestic violence is traditionally considered a family matter, however, it has evolved into a public concern. Husbands can now be prosecuted for committing violence.

According to the latest reports, domestic violence cases in Jakarta show an increasing trend, with 50 cases reported every year. The data shows this is a serious matter and must be handled in a serious way -- domestic violence has become a criminal act.

Women should file reports of violence to local police if they become victims. Unfortunately, not many police officers outside of Jakarta are aware this violence is a crime.

--The Jakarta Post