Our Insight
KPAI Urges Stronger Action Against School Bullying Amid Rising Cases in Indonesia
The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) has highlighted a number of bullying cases that have occurred in schools. KPAI stated that these bullying incidents must be taken seriously by schools and parents. They want cooperation to educate students to avoid bullying. KPAI also mentioned that child protection in schools is still not optimal, and some parties still consider bullying as ordinary mischief.
KPAI encourages schools to form a special team to prevent and handle bullying cases. This team should have a serious concern for children and carry out educational campaigns. The development of good relationships among students and assertive communication are also considered important to prevent violence.
In the past two weeks, there have been several cases of bullying in various schools. One of them was a case in North Luwu, South Sulawesi, where an elementary school student was hospitalized due to bullying by his friends. After mediation, both parties agreed not to pursue the matter further.
Another case involved a junior high school student in Tuban, East Java, who was abused by his friends. The video of the abuse has been recognized by the police. In addition, the latest bullying case involved a Pasuruan City SMAN 4 student who ended up having to be hospitalized in a mental hospital due to the bullying he experienced. The police are investigating the case and have examined 21 relevant witnesses.
KPAI and the authorities urge that the issue of bullying in schools should not be taken lightly and should be better anticipated. KPAI also reminds the importance of protecting children in educational settings.
