Little Aresha Daycare Violence Case: KPAI Calls for Investigation into Foundation Owner

Member of the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI), Diyah Puspitarini, assesses that there are indications of serious violations in the child abuse case at Little Aresha Daycare in Umbulharjo, Yogyakarta. This is because there is a pattern of treatment carried out systematically, repeatedly, and on a massive scale against the children entrusted there. “If it is true that practices are carried out in a structured manner and involve more than one caregiver, then this cannot be viewed as an individual action. There needs to be an investigation up to the level of management and the foundation owner,” said Diyah, quoted from the official KPAI website, on Monday (27/4/2026). Daycares proven to have committed violations must receive firm action, one of which is permanent closure. The handling of the child abuse case at Little Aresha Daycare must refer to Article 59A of Law No. 17 of 2016 on Child Protection. “We encourage protection from the Witness and Victim Protection Agency (LPSK), given reports that several victims’ families have been approached by unidentified parties. The state is obliged to ensure a sense of security for the victims and their families,” said Diyah. Previously, 53 children were suspected of experiencing physical violence and inhumane treatment at Little Aresha Daycare in Umbulharjo, Yogyakarta City. Police have named 13 people as suspects and immediately detained them. The naming of suspects was carried out after the Yogyakarta Police Resort held a case assembly on Saturday (25/4/2026) night, following a raid at the scene. “Certainly, 13 people have been named as suspects, starting from the school principal, foundation chair, to the caregivers at the location. It could develop further, depending on the development process and additional statements from the suspects,” said Ihsan on Sunday (26/4/2026). Meanwhile, the government is urged to tighten standard operating procedures (SOP) and supervision of child care facilities or daycares in Indonesia. This demand was voiced by member of Commission IX of the DPR, Arzeti Bilbina, following the child abuse case by daycare parties in Umbulharjo, Yogyakarta. “The state must be present to ensure maximum protection for children from all forms of violence,” stressed Arzeti in his statement on Monday (27/4/2026). “This is our collective responsibility to ensure that every place trusted to care for children is a safe, healthy, and loving environment,” said Arzeti. In addition, she urged the operational closure of Little Aresha Daycare if proven to have committed violence against children. “We strongly condemn the violent treatment at the Yogyakarta daycare. This is an inhumane act and a crime that cannot be tolerated at all. The perpetrators must be given firm sanctions, including revocation of the operational permit for that place so that there are no more victims in the future,” said Arzeti.