Primary School Teacher in Buleleng Named Suspect in Underage Student Molestation

The Buleleng Police, Bali, have named a primary school teacher, identified by the initials MGAW, as a suspect in the alleged molestation of a 12-year-old student. The Head of Public Relations for the Buleleng Police, Iptu Yohana Rosalin Diaz, confirmed that the suspect has been officially designated as such.

‘It is true that there is such a report (the designation of suspect),’ said Iptu Yohana on Thursday (30/7). Furthermore, the suspect, MGAW, was arrested and is currently being held at the Buleleng Police Detention Centre as of Tuesday (28/7). ‘The investigation process is still ongoing,’ she added.

In response to the incident, the Regent of Buleleng, I Nyoman Sutjidra, has proposed that the school temporarily dismiss the teacher. He stated that this measure is being taken while awaiting the final legal verdict. ‘This is a very concerning matter. I am deeply saddened that a teacher would commit such an act,’ he remarked. ‘Regarding the molestation of a student, I believe I must take temporary action. There is a proposal for temporary dismissal until the legal process is complete.’

Sutjidra noted that MGAW’s status as a Government Employee with Work Agreement (PPPK) does not prevent the application of disciplinary sanctions, as PPPK holders possess the same rights and obligations as other Civil Servants (ASN). ‘The sanctions are the same. We apply the existing rights and obligations,’ he explained. He further clarified that the temporary suspension would remain in effect until legal certainty is achieved in the case. Once a court decision becomes legally binding, the Buleleng Regency Government will determine the next steps in accordance with applicable regulations.

Regarding victim support, the Buleleng Regency Government has ensured that the victim is receiving psychological assistance. A team from the Social Services Department has been deployed to assist in the victim’s recovery. ‘Psychological assistance is underway. The Social Services Department has intervened. I understand the child’s psychological state, so a team of assistants and psychologists from the Social Services Department was deployed that very day,’ Sutjidra said.

Expressing profound concern over the case involving the educator, the Regent urged all teaching staff to perform their duties professionally and uphold high integrity when educating students. ‘I always urge you: let us educate these children with integrity and sincerity in providing guidance to our students. Treat your students as if they were your own children, so that you truly provide excellent service to them. Let such an incident never happen again,’ Sutjidra concluded.