Legislator urges stronger bullying prevention in schools

A member of Commission XIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), M. Shadiq Pasadigoe, has urged the strengthening of bullying prevention systems in schools following an explosion at MAN 3 Padang in West Sumatra. Shadiq stated that the incident must serve as a lesson for the education sector to ensure schools are safe, comfortable spaces capable of protecting all students. “If the alleged bullying is proven, this is not just an individual problem but our collective responsibility,” he said in a statement received in Jakarta on Friday. He emphasised that parents, teachers, schools, the government, the community, and students must work together to build an educational environment that respects human dignity. Shadiq asserted that bullying, no matter how minor, must never be dismissed as a joke or part of social dynamics, as it can impact the victim’s psychological condition and potentially trigger undesirable actions. He proposed that each school form a dedicated team involving the headteacher, guidance and counselling teachers, psychologists, the school committee, parents, and student representatives. Schools are also expected to establish easily accessible bullying complaint centres that guarantee the confidentiality of reporters and provide psychological support and swift resolution. Furthermore, he suggested the creation of anti-bullying ambassadors or peer support groups as agents of change to cultivate a culture of mutual respect and protection within the school environment. “Children must have a space to be heard. They must feel that when they face problems, there are always teachers, parents, or friends ready to help,” he said. Police previously revealed that the suspected perpetrator of the explosion at MAN 3 Padang on Tuesday was a 17-year-old student. A school security officer had earlier discovered a suspected homemade bomb on the premises. Police also disclosed that the suspect allegedly intended to vent his emotions after experiencing years of bullying, though this remains under investigation.