Minister PPPA: Child Marriage Justified by Tradition Cannot Be Permitted

Jakarta - The Minister of Women Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA) Arifatul Choiri Fauzi has firmly stated that the practice of child marriage justified by tradition or social pressure cannot be permitted when it disregards the best interests of the child.

“We respect the cultural values that exist in society, but the protection of children’s rights must be the primary priority. Tradition cannot sacrifice the future of children,” said Minister Arifatul Choiri Fauzi in Jakarta on Tuesday.

She made this statement in response to a child marriage involving two children aged 13 and 15 years old in Pancor Hamlet, Tumpak Village, Pujut District, Central Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara.

Based on information gathered, the incident began on 3 March 2026 in the early morning when both children left their homes and were subsequently discovered by their families. This occurrence prompted the family’s decision to marry them off through family consultation and customary procedures, despite the village government having previously advised against the marriage as both children were below the legal age.

A joint team from the UPTD PPA of West Nusa Tenggara Province, the DP3A of Central Lombok Regency, the Unit PPA of Central Lombok District Police, Pujut Health Centre, and the Tumpak Village Government subsequently conducted outreach and provided assistance to the children and their families.

Nevertheless, UPTD PPA will continue to conduct regular monitoring and support to ensure the fundamental rights of the children remain protected.

Earlier, a video circulated widely on social media showing the marriage ceremony of two children in Central Lombok, allegedly held on Thursday (5 March). The girl child remains a junior secondary school student, whilst the boy is reported to have dropped out of school. Internet users expressed regret over the child marriage that took place during the month of Ramadan.