KPAI urges early detection, rapid response to bullying

Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) highlighted the importance of early detection and swift response in handling bullying cases.

“Bullying incidents are never isolated events; there is always an element of repetition. Therefore, efforts for early detection and rapid response to bullying cases are crucial,” KPAI member Dian Sasmita noted in a phone interview in Jakarta on Sunday.

Sasmita made the statement in response to an alleged bullying case involving a primary school child in Riau, which tragically resulted in the victim’s death.

According to the commission member, early detection and quick response in bullying cases are vital to prevent more severe consequences arising from such behavior.

“Rapid response and early detection can minimize the worst impacts of bullying behavior, both for the victims and the perpetrators. This also includes their social environment and the families of the children involved,” Sasmita remarked.

Earlier, an eight-year-old primary school student in Indragiri Hulu, Riau, died after reportedly being bullied.

The bullying was alleged committed by several senior students. The victim passed away while receiving treatment at a regional hospital in Riau in the early hours of Monday (May 26).

The victim’s parents stated that their child had frequently complained of stomach pain during his life. The family has reported the case to the police.

The Indragiri Hulu Police are still investigating the case. Investigators are currently awaiting the autopsy results to confirm the cause of death.