South Bangka Regency Government Ensures Assistance And Education Rights For Victims Of Sexual Harassment

JAKARTA - A child who is a victim of sexual harassment at an educational institution in South Bangka Regency is now receiving special attention from local governments.

In addition to guaranteeing the legal process, the government also affirms its commitment to protecting the rights of victims' education so that their future does not be cut off due to the tragedy that befell them.

The Regent of South Bangka, Riza Herdavid, revealed that he had instructed the Social Service for Women's Empowerment and Child Protection to provide comprehensive assistance to victims until the entire legal process and recovery were completed.

"This support is very important, both psychologically and legally, in order to ensure the victim's child can bounce back," he said in Toboali, as quoted by ANTARA.

He also emphasized the importance of the role of the Education Office in ensuring the continuity of children's education, including those in religious institutions. "Education is the right of all children. No children should be cut off from school because they are victims. We must be present to ensure they still have a future," he said.

Head of the South Bangka Education and Culture Office, Elfan Rulyadi, said that his party had collected data on students at the educational institution where the alleged harassment occurred. Based on temporary data, there were 63 students who were also registered in formal schools, consisting of 27 elementary and 36 junior high school students.

"We make sure they stay in school as usual. If anyone wants to move to the nearest school for convenience, we are ready to facilitate," said Elfan.

Previously, the South Bangka Resort Police named MG (40), a head of a religious education institution in Payung District, as a suspect in a case of abuse against minors. The suspect has now been secured with evidence by the police.

MG was charged with Article 82 paragraph (1) and/or paragraph (2) of Law Number 17 of 2016 concerning Child Protection. If found guilty, the perpetrator faces up to 20 years in prison.