House Deputy Speaker Condemns 'Atrocious' Abuse of 32 Primary School Students in Makassar

Deputy Chairman of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Singgih Januratmoko, has condemned the depraved acts of a grandfather with the initials MD, aged 60, who allegedly sexually abused 32 primary school students in Makassar, South Sulawesi. He described the case as an extraordinary crime and insisted the perpetrator must be dealt with firmly. “I strongly condemn the alleged sexual abuse of dozens of primary school children in Makassar. This is a very heinous crime and cannot be tolerated in any form. Children who should feel safe in the school environment have instead become victims of actions that severely damage their future,” Singgih said in a statement on Monday (20/7/2026). Singgih urged the authorities in Makassar to intervene and provide maximum protection for the child victims. He also requested that the police process the case professionally and transparently, and impose the heaviest possible punishment if the perpetrator is found guilty. “I support the legal process being carried out firmly and the maximum penalty being imposed in accordance with the provisions of the law. A punishment that provides a deterrent effect is crucial so that no other perpetrators dare to commit similar crimes against children,” he stressed. Singgih demanded that all victims receive psychological counselling, social rehabilitation, and comprehensive legal and identity protection. He stated that the recovery of the victims must be the primary concern, as the impact of sexual violence on children can be long-term. “Handling this case is not enough just to arrest and punish the perpetrator. The government, through relevant ministries and agencies, must ensure all victims receive psychological support, rehabilitation, and protection so they can recover and continue their education and social lives properly,” he said. Furthermore, Singgih pushed for an evaluation of the child protection system within the school environment and the community. He argued that stronger supervision is needed around school areas, including places where children frequently gather. “This case is a reminder that child protection is our collective responsibility. Parents, schools, the community, local governments, and law enforcement must strengthen synergy to ensure that spaces accessed by children are truly safe from all forms of violence and exploitation,” he stated. He confirmed that Commission VIII of the House of Representatives will continue to pay attention to efforts to strengthen the child protection system to prevent similar incidents from recurring. “Every Indonesian child has the right to grow up in a safe, dignified, and protected environment. The state must not lose to perpetrators of sexual violence against children. They must be held accountable before the law,” he added. The case involves a 60-year-old shopkeeper who allegedly abused the children at his stall located in front of the school in Manggala District. The incident came to light in June 2026 following a report by the victims’ parents. Initially, only three victims were identified, but the number grew to 32 after data collection and counselling sessions involving the local Women and Children Protection Unit, parents, and teachers. The police have confirmed receiving the reports and have detained the suspect.