Minister Arifah Fauzi said on Tuesday that the ministry has activated its Women and Children’s Support Service (SAPA) 129 hotline and is coordinating efforts with the regional office in South Labuhanbatu.
“We don’t want children to suffer in silence.They need help to process what they’ve endured and to be empowered to speak up,” she said.
She emphasized that the recovery process must be holistic, stressing that all children deserve full protection and the opportunity to move forward with their lives.
The South Labuhanbatu Office for Women Empowerment, Child Protection, Population Control, and Family Planning has begun providing mental health assistance, while the Regional Commission on Child Protection has conducted preliminary assessments.
“Based on early assessments, 23 children reported being assaulted. But only five were brave enough to speak to school officials and open up during counseling,” Fauzi explained.
The abuse case surfaced when five parents filed reports against a 31-year-old physical education teacher, identified as ANS, at a public elementary school in South Labuhanbatu.
The assaults allegedly began in 2024 and occurred during school hours. The teacher reportedly targeted students in the classroom, using his position to manipulate and silence them.
Minister Fauzi urged all stakeholders—including schools, law enforcement, and families—to ensure the victims receive justice and long-term care.
“We must stand with these children and show them they are not alone,” she said.
The case has sparked public outrage and renewed calls for stronger safeguards and oversight in schools across Indonesia, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Authorities continue to investigate, and ANS remains in custody.
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Translator: Anita Permata Dewi, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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