RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Ministry of Women’s Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA) is calling for stronger community-based child protection groups to help prevent and respond to cases of violence against children. Officials say these grassroots networks play a vital role in educating families and communities, while also ensuring victims are quickly referred to nearby support services.

“The role of community-based child protection groups must be reinforced to continue delivering education through existing channels such as PKK, religious organizations, and neighborhood associations, while also responding promptly by referring victims to the nearest service facilities,” Acting Deputy for Special Child Protection at the Ministry of PPPA, Indra Gunawan, said in Jakarta on Monday, February 23, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

His remarks came in response to the tragic death of a 12-year-old boy in Sukabumi, West Java, allegedly due to severe abuse by his stepmother. The ministry condemned the act, stressing that families should be safe spaces where children feel secure and can grow optimally.

The Ministry of PPPA urged the public to take an active role in preventing violence by reporting suspected cases involving women and children. Reports can be submitted through SAPA 129, via WhatsApp at 08111-129-129, or online at laporsapa129.kemenpppa.go.id.

“The family must be a place where children feel safe and comfortable, enabling them to grow and thrive,” Indra emphasized.

According to reports, the victim - who normally lived at a pesantren (Islamic boarding school) - was home on break to prepare for Ramadan when the incident occurred. His father, working in Sukabumi city, was called home by his wife, who claimed the boy was ill. Upon returning, the father rushed his son to Jampang Kulon Hospital, but the child succumbed to his injuries, which included bruises and burns. ***