Social Affairs Minister Addresses Bullying: "This Has Nothing to Do with the SMAN 72 Explosion Case"

JAKARTA - Indonesian Minister of Social Affairs Syaifullah Yusuf called on all parties to play a role in preventing bullying in schools, as it can have long-term impacts on victims.

"This is not related to the SMAN 72 explosion, but in general, we must prevent bullying in schools," he said at the Cempaka Putih Islamic Hospital in Central Jakarta on Sunday, November 9.

As quoted by ANTARA on Sunday, November 9, Social Affairs Minister Syaifullah Yusuf stated that there are three things that must be prevented together, and the Ministry of Social Affairs is currently working with the Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) to mitigate these issues to prevent them from occurring in schools.

First, bullying perpetrated by anyone against anyone.

Second, physical and sexual violence in schools, and third, intolerance.

"This is what we must protect together," he said.

He did not link the explosion to bullying, as it is the police's responsibility to provide a clear explanation of this case.

Gus Ipul hopes everyone will collectively realize that bullying has long-term consequences.

"It's possible that the victim could become a perpetrator in the future," he said.

He added that some victims of sexual harassment also become perpetrators in due course.

He believes this is something we must all protect, but once again, he doesn't dare speculate on this case.

"Let's wait for an official explanation from the police," he said.

Previously, the Head of Public Relations of the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, Senior Commissioner Budi Hermanto, stated that the suspected perpetrator of the explosion at SMAN 72 Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta, is a child in conflict with the law (ABH) and is currently undergoing treatment in the intensive care unit (ICU) after undergoing surgery.

"The wound is definitely on the head, and there are scratches. Yes, he underwent surgery on his head," said the Head of Public Relations of the Jakarta Metropolitan Police, Senior Commissioner Budi Hermanto, at the Jakarta Metropolitan Police headquarters.

Budi stated that the child is now conscious but still requires gradual medical treatment.