"What we need to avoid is the virus, not the person. Children living with HIV must not be alienated or discriminated against and must not lose their rights to education, health, parenting, and protection," she said in a statement released in Jakarta on Monday.
Fauzi underscored that children living with HIV have the same rights as other Indonesian citizens to grow, develop, and participate in society.
She made the remarks following a report confirming that 522 children had tested positive for HIV in Sidoarjo, East Java.
The minister affirmed that the state and society share responsibility for ensuring the protection and fulfillment of the rights of all children, as mandated by the 1945 Constitution.
Citing Law No. 35 of 2014 on Child Protection, she noted that every child is entitled to healthcare, schooling, parenting, and protection, as well as equal opportunities to participate in society.
She also cited Law No. 17 of 2023 on Health, reiterating the statutory mandate to provide HIV-positive children with adequate access to safe and child-friendly medical services.
"They also have the right to engage in learning activities at educational institutions without rejection, alienation, or discriminatory treatment, which is guaranteed by Law No. 20 of 2003 on the National Education System," Fauzi added.
She further emphasized that the state must assure children living with HIV of access to quality education.
Moreover, the minister stressed that HIV-positive children deserve psychosocial support, an inclusive environment, and protection from stigma and discriminatory practices.
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Translator: A.P. Dewi, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Arie Novarina
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