Yasonna: Do Not Stay Silent When You Are a Victim or Witness Sexual Harassment

Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives Commission XIII, Yasonna H. Laoly, has called on the public to boldly report all forms of criminal sexual violence. He stated that Indonesia now has a strong legal foundation through Law No. 12 of 2022 on Sexual Violence Crimes (UU TPKS). “Courage to report is key. Do not stay silent when you become a victim or witness sexual harassment,” said Yasonna in a written statement on Friday (17/4). The former Minister of Law and Human Rights explained that sexual harassment does not only occur in the form of physical contact but can also be verbal or non-physical actions. According to him, forms such as whistling, sexually suggestive comments, to sending pornographic content fall under harassment categories that can be legally processed. Yasonna stated that the UU TPKS imposes strict sanctions on perpetrators. For non-physical harassment, perpetrators can face up to nine months’ imprisonment or a maximum fine of Rp10 million. Meanwhile, physical harassment can result in up to 12 years’ imprisonment or a maximum fine of Rp300 million. In addition to principal penalties, the law also regulates additional punishments. Yasonna highlighted the ease of proof in the UU TPKS, which is seen as more victim-friendly. Statements from victims or witnesses can serve as valid evidence as long as supported by at least one other piece of evidence. “This is an important breakthrough. Victims no longer need to fear reporting just because they feel they lack witnesses,” he said. Yasonna advised the public to immediately take several steps if experiencing or knowing of a sexual harassment case, starting from securing oneself, preserving evidence, seeking support, to reporting to authorities. Various complaint channels provided by relevant agencies up to the police can also be utilised. “With collective understanding and courage, we can create a safe environment free from sexual violence,” said Yasonna. One alleged harassment case that has been widely discussed in the public occurred at the University of Indonesia. This alleged harassment case began with the circulation of a screenshot from a group chat containing lewd conversations allegedly involving FHUI students. In the group, they referenced other female students. From the Instagram account of the Faculty of Law UI (@fakultashukumui), it was stated that the faculty has received reports regarding the group chat. The faculty strongly condemned the action. Most recently, the campus has deactivated the academic status of 16 FH students suspected of being involved in the sexual harassment case in the group chat.