Human Rights Ministry backs student's opinion on free meal programme
If there are any intimidating actions, they can be reported to the ministry to be followed up,Jakarta (ANTARA) -
During an audience with the Kudus District Government and coordination at vocational high school SMK Nurul Fatah on Thursday (April 23), Mugiyanto said the expression of opinion by a student named Arsya constitute constructive public participation.
“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 from potential intimidation or pressure,” the deputy minister said in a statement released here on Friday.
He said the courage shown by the 17-year-old student reflects healthy democratic practice, as it was conveyed politely and did not contain elements of hate or legal violations.
Mugiyanto added that the government, through the Ministry of Human Rights, provides a channel for reporting in cases where there is potential threat to the safety or freedom of individuals expressing their aspirations.
“The Ministry of Human Rights is obliged to ensure the protection of Arsya’s physical and mental integrity so that there is no intimidation, threat, or pressure over the opinion that has been conveyed. If there are any intimidating actions, they can be reported to the ministry to be followed up,” he said.
On the other hand, he explained that the MBG program is part of efforts to fulfill children’s right to nutritious food, especially for vulnerable groups. The government is also committed to improving teachers’ welfare as part of strengthening education quality.
Mugiyanto stressed that both agendas run in parallel within the framework of fulfilling economic, social, and cultural rights, and therefore should not be set against each other.
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Translator: Devi, Kenzu