Rising Violence in Daycares Prompts Commission VIII to Push for Improved Oversight System

Cases of child abuse occurring in daycare centres across various regions have become a serious concern. The incidents have caused deep alarm because they took place in environments that should be safe spaces for children to grow, learn, and receive proper care. Deputy Chairman of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Singgih Januratmoko, stressed that child protection must be a top priority in the provision of childcare services in Indonesia. He stated that the state must not be complacent when children become victims of violence in places trusted by parents as safe caregiving spaces. “Child safety and protection must be the top priority. Daycare centres, which should provide a sense of security, must not become spaces where violence against children occurs,” Singgih said at the Parliament Complex in Jakarta on Tuesday. He explained that Law Number 4 of 2024 on the Welfare of Mothers and Children During the First Thousand Days of Life provides a legal basis that working mothers and children are entitled to safe and proper care services. The regulation also affirms every child’s right to protection from violence, mistreatment, neglect, and discrimination. However, various uncovered cases show that childcare services still face significant challenges, ranging from weak supervision, uneven service standards, inadequate caregiver competency, to suboptimal mechanisms for preventing and handling violations. Commission VIII views this issue not as an isolated case, but as a momentum to carry out comprehensive reforms in the governance of childcare services in Indonesia. Singgih emphasised the importance of strengthening the supervision system and improving the quality of care in daycare centres so that every child receives a safe, healthy, and supportive environment for their development. “Child protection is a shared responsibility. Therefore, supervision of childcare services must be strengthened and caregiving standards must be met to guarantee the safety and comfort of children,” he said. Commission VIII is also urging local governments, relevant ministries, and all daycare operators to ensure that every childcare service meets safety and child protection standards in accordance with statutory regulations.