Despite Apologizing, West Java Deputy Governor's Statement 'Bullying Ordinary Things' Proves Insensitive Officials

Photo by Rene Bernal on Unsplash

JAKARTA - Member of Commission I of the DPR from the PDIP Faction, Major General TNI (ret.) TB Hasanuddin regretted the statement by the Deputy Governor of West Java Uu Ruzhanul Ulum regarding the bullying case of elementary school children in Tasikmalaya who were depressed and ended up committing suicide.

Hasanuddin reminded Uu that as a state official, he should maintain ethics in speaking. Especially when it comes to cases involving children.

"I think a public official must have ethics and knowledge. Moreover, a leader should not talk nonsense and should have empathy for victims of bullying, especially children," Hasanuddin told reporters, Wednesday, July 27.

The PDIP legislator for the West Java electoral district also reminded Uu that his statement could be brought to court. Because according to Hasanuddin, cases of bullying and sexual harassment are not uncommon. Moreover, the TPKS Law has been passed.

"We have a Child Protection Law, there is also a Law on Sexual Violence (TPKS). So how can this be enforced as protection for victims and also provide a deterrent effect for perpetrators," said Hasanuddin.

According to the PDIP politician, although the West Java Deputy Governor has apologized for his statement, it proves the insensitivity of a leader and leaves wounds for the victim's family. Moreover, Hasanuddin said, this case received the spotlight from the public and went viral on social media.

"Also think about the physical, mental, and emotional impact on the victims of bullying and their families. There is no need to make statements that will cause controversy," said the Pangaping Council of the Pasundan Association. Previously, the Deputy Governor of West Java, Uu Ruzhanul Ulum had asked Sorry for his statement that was quoted by the media regarding the case of child abuse in Tasikmalaya Regency. The Puk Law supports cases of bullying to the point of ordering the victim to have sex with the cat, to be brought to court.

"So first of all, I'm sorry to say something like that because I didn't really mean it in the context of this incident. What I said, when I joked with my media colleagues, it's normal for friends and friends to tease each other," said UU at a press conference. at Gedung Sate, Bandung City, Monday, July 25.

"But actually it's not allowed, even if it's a normal thing, it's not allowed. That's what I'm saying. I'm sorry for my wrong statement about it because I was once a child, and when I was little I liked to make fun of each other," he continued.

The law admits that it is in line with the direction of the Governor of West Java, who asked for cases of bullying against children, which made the child depressed and died, be investigated thoroughly according to applicable law.

"Obviously, in accordance with the direction of the Governor, we leave everything to law enforcement officials (APH). Hopefully there will be a lesson in itself," he said.