RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian Deputy Minister of Human Rights, Mugiyanto, highlighted the prevalence of child abuse as a serious issue for the government to address. He emphasized that every child has the right to grow and develop in a safe, healthy, and supportive environment.

“When we hear about numerous cases of violence against children by law enforcement officials, by parents, and even suicide, this is obviously a very concerning situation,” said Mugiyanto when interviewed by the media in Jakarta on Thursday, February 26, 2026.

According to him, the government is responsible for ensuring that every child has a conducive environment in which to grow and develop optimally. “We also want to strengthen the role of the Indonesian Commission for Child Protection (KPAI) as one of the National Human Rights Institutions (NHRI), how child protection is placed within the human rights context," Mugiyanto said.

He acknowledged aspirations for KPAI to be independent and free from certain interests in order to safeguard children. Mugiyanto explained that these needs include education, playgrounds, proper food, and a sense of security as the most basic aspects.

“If we view children from a human rights perspective, then we must create an optimal ecosystem where children can grow and develop their potential. The most essential aspect is a sense of security, especially now that there are new challenges with gadgets and the digital environment, which are prone to threatening children,” said Mugiyanto.

Meanwhile, lawmaker Dini Rahmania of the House of Representatives’ Commission VIII said that the death of NS serves as an alarm to strengthen the national child protection system.

NS, a 12-year-old boy from Sukabumi, West Java, died after allegedly suffering prolonged abuse at the hands of his stepmother. Police investigations revealed evidence of physical and psychological violence, including burns and blunt force injuries, making the case one of the latest examples of domestic violence against children in Indonesia.

Dini described the incident as heartbreaking and a reminder that child protection must continue to be reinforced. “This case also shows that 12-year-old children, who are often considered old enough, are still very vulnerable to violence. Therefore, prevention must start from the family,” she said. (Gusti Panji/Lasti Martina)Gusti Panji/Lasti Martina)