'Domestic violence now seen as a crime'

'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