Prevent Sexual Violence in the Sports Environment, Komnas Perempuan Ready to Collaborate with the Minister for Youth and Sports

KOMPAS.com - Chair of the National Commission on Women (Komnas Perempuan), Maria Ulfah Anshor, lamented the alleged cases of sexual violence involving Indonesian climbers. She argued that the actions undermine the integrity of the Ministry of Youth and Sports (Kemenpora) and the Indonesian Climbing Federation (FPTI). She praised the Minister for Youth and Sports (Menpora) Erick Thohir for his swift response in opening a reporting channel and overseeing the investigation. ‘I commend Menpora Erick for rapidly responding to the alleged abuse of climbers. The reporting channel opened by Kemenpora is a concrete step by the institution so that victims can speak out and receive comprehensive handling,’ Maria said in a press statement received by Kompas.com on Saturday, 7 March 2026. She hopes Kemenpora provides adequate support so athletes feel safe and protected. She also offered three recommendations to Kemenpora. First, to provide a reporting service that includes health services, social rehabilitation, and law enforcement services. The first point has been implemented well by Kemenpora. ‘Finally, ensure victims receive recovery services, both physically, mentally, spiritually, and socially,’ she added. She also reminded that Kemenpora must ensure victims are free from pressure or intimidation by any party related to the case. Support to strengthen victims physically and psychologically should also be provided so they are not afraid to tell of their experiences. Steps include providing sexual violence prevention material to athletes, installing CCTV in training rooms monitored periodically, and governance that applies a zero-tolerance policy to all forms of violence. These principles should be enshrined in the working agreements of all sports federations, coaches, and athletes, along with sanctions as provided in the Sexual Violence Crimes Law (TPKS). Komnas Perempuan also stated it is ready to collaborate with Kemenpora in receiving referrals of complaints from athletes via the page https://bit.ly/AduanKomnasPerempuan.