"Children have to be informed about ways to avoid things which can endanger them. Also (they must be) taught about what is violence and things which can be done to prevent violence," deputy of special protection for children at the ministry, Nahar, said in response to a case involving the bullying of an elementary school student from Tasikmalaya, when contacted from here on Friday.
This sort of knowledge is crucial for children because it allows them to be better prepared to engage with their surroundings, he added.
Violence can take place anywhere, he said.
"Violence is near us. Thus, we must not tire of ensuring preventive efforts are done as best as possible," he added.
The elementary student from Tasikmalaya, West Java, reportedly died due to trauma and depression caused by bullying.
The victim was allegedly bullied by peers to act indecently with a cat. The bullies reportedly recorded the victim’s act and shared it on social media platforms, where it went viral.
Prior to death, the victim was in a state of trauma and depression, and experienced a continued decline in health.
"The victim complained of pain in the throat to the point of refusing to eat or drink. Psychologically, the child always seemed down and often spaced out," Nahar noted.
The victim passed away at Tasikmalaya Regional General Hospital.
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Translator: Anita P D, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Suharto
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