Before the shackles were opened, his hair was shaved until bald because of the long hair
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Social Affairs Minister Tri Rismaharini instructed her staff to release a person with mental disorders (ODGJ), who was shackled in Palembang, South Sumatra, on Thursday.

During the 2022 World Mental Health Day social campaign event accessed here, Rismaharini greeted persons with mental disorders being treated at each of the ministry's technical implementation units (UPTs) across Indonesia via a Zoom connection.

Different from other UPTs that directed their patients to greet the minister, the Sentra Budi Perkasa UPT in Palembang released an ODGJ from shackles.

Sentra Budi Perkasa UPT Head Wahyu Dewanto said his team released a shackled ODGJ, who lived behind a small store in a market.

The release also involved a psychiatrist, who helped facilitate the process.


Related news: Gov't distributing social aid via many channels: minister


"Before the shackles were opened, his hair was shaved until bald because of the long hair," Dewanto stated.

On witnessing this, Minister Rismaharini was deeply touched and expressed concern over the condition. She then ordered UPT officials to immediately release the shackles from the ODGJ's feet.

"Lift his leg first, release it first. Please, (be careful with) the leg. Oh my Lord," she said and ordered Dewanto to immediately send the person to a hospital first before treating him at the UPT center.

The Social Ministry commemorates World Mental Health Day that falls on October 10. The commemoration aimed to increase public understanding and awareness around the world on mental health issues.


Related news: Gov't to provide cash assistance for orphans, single elderly: minister


The social campaign event was centered at the Pangudi Luhur Integrated Center in Bekasi. Four integrated centers and 27 other centers would join in their respective areas.

Meanwhile, Rismaharini also greeted and communicated with persons with mental disorders and their families and symbolically handed over social rehabilitation assistance to 15 people with mental or psychosocial disabilities.

The ministry, through its integrated centers and center units, has provided services to 2,032 people, with an assistance value of Rp1.85 billion.


Related news: Psychosocial aid provided to families of Kanjuruhan tragedy victims

Related news: Minister Rismaharini declares Kanjuruhan tragedy as social disaster

Translator: Devi R, Kenzu
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
Copyright © ANTARA 2022