The minister flew to Bengkulu aboard a commercial plane and landed at 10:30 a.m. Western Indonesian Standard Time (WIB) in Bengkulu City, head of the ministry's Bengkulu Dharma Guna Center Syam Wuryani stated in Bengkulu, Tuesday.
Later, Minister Rismaharini took a road trip to North Bengkulu District, located around 96 km away from the city. In the district, the minister plans to meet with the rape victims at 2 p.m. WIB.
"In response to Madam Minister's directive, we have taken several measures. We are also working in cooperation with law enforcers to ensure that the perpetrator will face appropriate legal sanctions," Wuryani remarked.
As a follow-up to the minister's instruction, he affirmed that the center has taken several measures by providing varied services, such as free psychological test, trauma healing, group dynamics, relaxation therapy, health and psychological assessment, and group counseling.
In addition, the Bengkulu Dharma Guna Center has been providing support through the ministry's social rehabilitation assistance (ATENSI).
The immoral act was committed by KM, a teacher of an elementary school in North Bengkulu, on at least 30 children.
According to Wuryani, the victims were plunged in feelings of sadness, shame, fury, and disappointment over the act committed by the perpetrator. Moreover, several victims and their parents admitted that they felt uneasy, as the case had come under the public spotlight.
"Based on psychological assessment, a number of the victims are having trouble with sleep and also experiencing a change of emotion after the assault," he remarked.
However, the victims are still able to communicate and speak out about the unwanted event. They are also living their lives as usual and engaging in social interactions, including playing football and enjoying their time with peers.
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Translator: Boyke Ledy W, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Sri Haryati
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