Ministry of Women's Empowerment Spotlights Sukabumi Case of Child Allegedly Tortured to Death by Stepmother

The case of a teenager identified by the initials NS (12) in Sukabumi, West Java, who allegedly died as a result of abuse by his stepmother, has drawn significant attention. The Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA) expressed dismay that child violence continues to occur during the month of Ramadan.

“We extend our deepest condolences over the death of a child (a religious student) in Sukabumi. This is naturally a matter of great concern for all of us — that in the midst of the Muslim community welcoming and observing the fasting period, a child has died with bruising found on his body,” said Acting Deputy for Special Child Protection at KemenPPPA, Indra Gunawan, when contacted on Monday (23/2/2026).

KemenPPPA also highlighted child-rearing patterns in the case of violence against NS. Indra stated that the family should be the safest and most comfortable place for a child to grow up.

“The family is naturally expected to be a place where children feel safe and comfortable so they can develop optimally. The alleged violence against a child indicates problems in child-rearing within the family,” Indra explained.

Furthermore, Indra said KemenPPPA would strengthen its service units in processing complaints related to child violence. The ministry will also collaborate with the Ministry of Population and Family Development to reinforce the family’s function as a pillar of child protection.

“The role of the community and community-based child protection groups needs to be strengthened again to continue providing education through the various channels available in society, such as the PKK (Family Welfare Movement), religious activities and groups, neighbourhood associations (RT/RW), dasawisma groups, and of course to be able to respond by referring cases to the nearest service facilities when child abuse victims are identified,” Indra said.

The victim NS was reported to have died on Thursday (19/2). At the hospital before drawing his last breath, the victim reportedly confessed that he had been forced to drink boiling water by his stepmother.

The case remains under investigation by the Sukabumi District Police. No suspects have been named.