Why Fathers Are Still Obliged to Provide for Their Children After Divorce? Here Is the Reason

Thousands of fathers in Surabaya have been recorded as failing to fulfil their obligation to provide child maintenance after divorce. This phenomenon is not only a legal issue but also highlights parents’ perspectives on their roles and responsibilities after separation. Under Indonesian law, a father’s duty to support his child persists even after divorce. This is regulated in Article 41 letter (b) of Law No. 1 of 1974, which affirms that the father still bears the responsibility for the costs of child maintenance and education according to his ability. Additionally, Article 321 of the Civil Code also states that parents’ obligation to provide maintenance to their child remains in effect even after divorce. If this obligation is not fulfilled, the mother or child’s guardian can pursue legal recourse through the District Court to protect the child’s rights. This means that maintenance does not depend on a good or bad relationship with the former spouse. The child still has rights that must be fulfilled by both parents. Psychologist Meity Arianty, STP., M.Psi., explains that many fathers still misunderstand this. “In my practice, I often encounter defence mechanisms like rationalisation, for example, thinking ‘the child is already being taken care of, it’s not my responsibility anymore because the mother is the one raising them, etc.’, to reduce feelings of guilt or internal conflict,” Meity clarified when contacted by Kompas.com on Thursday (16/4/2026). Efforts are needed that touch on cognitive, emotional, and social aspects. Cognitively, education is an important initial step. Fathers need to understand that maintenance is part of the child’s basic needs, from food, education, to psychological well-being. On the other hand, an emotional approach is equally important. Fathers need to be encouraged to rebuild their bond with the child. When empathy grows, awareness of fulfilling responsibilities usually strengthens as well. “An effective approach is not by blaming, but by inviting fathers to see themselves as an important figure who is still needed by the child,” said Meity.