KPAI commissioner Diyah Puspitarini said stronger collaboration was needed across families, schools, and government initiatives to build children’s resilience.
“We hope ministries and agencies make greater concerted efforts to ensure no more children decide to take their own lives,” she told reporters in Jakarta on Wednesday.
Her remarks came after the death of a 14‑year‑old girl in North Penajam Paser District, East Kalimantan, who allegedly took her own life on February 12.
Police are investigating possible bullying as a contributing factor. The commission is coordinating with local stakeholders to determine the circumstances and to prevent stigmatization of the victim.
The case followed another incident on January 29 in Ngada District, East Nusa Tenggara, where a 10‑year‑old boy identified as YBR reportedly committed suicide due to economic hardship.
Living with his grandparents in poverty, he left a note expressing disappointment at being unable to afford school supplies.
His mother resides separately with two older siblings, while his father abandoned the family before his birth.
The Ngada case drew national attention and prompted responses from senior officials, including President Prabowo Subianto.
On February 4, State Secretariat Minister Prasetyo Hadi said the president had instructed aides to strengthen coordination to prevent similar tragedies.
“We are drawing lessons from this case,” he said, pledging the government’s commitment to social justice.
Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf later acknowledged failures in aid distribution.
Although YBR was registered under the Smart Indonesia Program and his grandparents received social assistance, the support did not reach them.
The ministry has since dispatched an assessment team to review the family’s conditions and address gaps in welfare delivery.
Translator: Anita P, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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