Puan Encourages Psychological Assistance For Lewotobi Refugees: Children's Rights Must Be Protected

JAKARTA - The Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, encouraged the Government to pay more attention to psychological assistance to refugee children from the eruption of Mount Lewotobi Laki in East Flores Regency, NTT. He emphasized the importance of children's rights that must be protected even in a disaster situation.

"I express my concern over the condition of the children in the Lewotobi refugee camps. We must understand the burden and sadness of those who have to stay away from home, not to those who have lost their families," said Puan Maharani, Wednesday, November 20.

The refugees need psychological assistance, especially such as children and women who are the most vulnerable groups affected by the disaster, continued the first woman who served as Chair of the DPR RI.

Puan also highlighted a viral video showing a moment of emotion when a number of children who were victims of the eruption of Mount Lewotobi sang the song "Rindu Rumah" while in tears. They are known to be students of SDN Bawalatang in Nawokote Village who are in refugee camps.

According to Puan, what these children feel is really real. He is sorry for the sadness experienced by the refugees due to the loss of their homes and their daily environment, especially children who are relatively more sensitive and sensitive.

"I believe what they show is sincerity and a reflection of their deep longing for the lost place of residence," explained Puan.

Therefore, the former Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture asked the Government together with all relevant stakeholders to prioritize the needs that are the rights and aspects of child protection. Including, said Puan, in terms of mental health because they have the right to full attention and support to restore their psychological condition.

"The government needs to prioritize the mental health of children who are victims of the eruption, so that they can adapt back and get a better future. Children's rights must be protected," said Bung Karno's grandson.

Puan reminded that children are valuable assets for Indonesia's future. So that their health and safety are not only basic rights that must be fulfilled, but also become the foundation for the growth and development of the nation.

"We hope that the Government will immediately provide serious assistance in the process of psychological recovery of children who are victims of the disaster in Lewotobi," said Puan.

"But it's not just emotional support or help that is formality, but it must also involve professionals so as to help the trauma healing process and reduce the psychological impact they may experience," he added.

Puan's message is relevant to the moment of World Children's Day in 2024 which is commemorated every November 20. Because the basic rights of children are obligations that must be fulfilled.

"So all elements are obliged to create a conducive environment for children regardless of condition. Both in evacuations and in other locations. By strengthening the commitment to maintaining children's rights, it can be the best investment we can make for the future of the nation," said Puan.

According to the Convention on Children's Rights which was passed by the United Nations (UN) on November 12, 1989, children's rights were grouped into four categories. The first is the right to survival, namely children have the right to survive and get good health and care standards.

Second, the right to protection where children get the right to self-protect from violence, neglect, exploitation, and discrimination. This right allows children to carry out various religious and cultural activities freely.

Then the third right for children is the right to develop, including obtaining education to achieve decent living standards including mental, physical, spiritual, social, and moral development.

With this right, children have the right to study at school, play, and rest. Children are also entitled to a proper place to live and food and drink in order to support their growth and development.