Mass patrols under way as Bandung's suicide rate raises concerns

Bandung City Government in West Java has intensified patrols around Prof. Mochtar Kusumaatmadja Flyover, commonly known as Pasupati Flyover, to deter suicide attempts in the area. Bandung Mayor Muhammad Farhan said the patrols by the Civil Service Police Unit (Satpol PP) have been conducted for about a week in the Pasupati Flyover vicinity.

“Since last week we have intensified patrols around that area (Pasupati Flyover). It seems the suicide rate in Bandung is already worrying,” Farhan said in Bandung on Wednesday.

According to Farhan, patrols are being carried out intensively at several hotspots, not only at the flyover but also at other locations with potential for similar incidents.

“Very intensive. For several schools, I have asked schools and universities to safeguard the security of their tall buildings. There was a case of a female student jumping from a high-rise building,” he stated.

“We will also ensure patrols in shopping complexes; we cannot let anyone commit suicide in shopping centres again,” Farhan added.

Separately, the Bandung City Government is strengthening preventive measures through an educational approach within the educational environment. Mental health coaching programs are being implemented in schools, including training for Guidance Counselors (BK) in collaboration with psychology academics and clinical psychologists.