To Prevent Child Violence, MPR Deputy Speaker Urges Strengthening of Prevention and Law Enforcement

Recent cases of child violence, ranging from incidents at a daycare in Yogyakarta and allegations of sexual abuse against students at a pesantren in Pati, Central Java, to various other occurrences across the country, have highlighted the urgent need for action.

“Strengthening prevention and law enforcement must go hand in hand. There must be no more loopholes for systemic practices of violence against children,” emphasised Rerie in a written statement on Friday (8/5/2026).

Rerie assessed that a number of activities related to children need to be evaluated immediately. This step is intended to ensure that every activity has an adequate system for preventing violence and protecting children.

She also urged law enforcement officials handling child violence cases to understand policies that prioritise comprehensive victim protection. In addition, she called on the government to intensify campaigns to break the chain of violence against children.

The string of child violence cases occurring at present must serve as an alarm for stakeholders to immediately enhance the effectiveness of existing child protection policies.

“Massive socialisation and education on the rights of women and children to the public must also be carried out as part of protection efforts,” she stated.

With strengthened aspects of prevention and balanced law enforcement, supported by the political will of policymakers, Rerie is optimistic that Indonesia can break the chain of child violence nationally to create a healthy and competitive generation for the future.