Over 140 cases reported as local authorities intensify protection for women and children

The city of Batam faces a troubling rise in gender-based violence, with children accounting for the majority of cases reported in the first half of 2025. Authorities are taking urgent steps to protect and rehabilitate victims.

Sexual Violence Against Children Dominates Reports

The Regional Technical Implementation Unit for the Protection of Women and Children (UPTD PPA) of Batam has reported 141 cases of violence against women and children as of early June 2025. Of these, 109 cases involved children, with sexual abuse emerging as the dominant form.

“Child sexual violence continues to top our cases,” stated Dedy Suryadi, head of UPTD PPA Batam, on Monday, June 2. Of the 109 child abuse reports, 73 were sexual in nature, followed by 22 physical abuse cases and one psychological abuse case. There were also several cases of trafficking and other forms of exploitation.

Women Also Face Physical and Sexual Abuse

The report also logged 32 cases of violence against women. Physical violence accounted for 12 of these, while 15 were sexual in nature. The remaining cases included neglect, trafficking, and other forms of abuse. Most victims were adult women suffering abuse from partners or close acquaintances.

“The abuse is often domestic. We ensure victims receive legal aid, psychological support, and medical care,” Dedy noted. The agency works with hospitals, law enforcement, and NGOs to provide a comprehensive recovery framework for survivors.

Safe Houses Provide Critical Shelter

To ensure victims’ safety and psychological recovery, UPTD PPA operates two types of shelters: a short-term shelter and a more secure, longer-term “rumah aman” (safe house). The safe house is designed to replicate a home environment, complete with meals, caretakers, and psychological services.

Dedy emphasized that the location of the safe house remains confidential to ensure security. Only UPTD officers may coordinate visits, protecting victims from further trauma or threats.

Recent Case: Four-Year-Old Boy Abused

Among the latest and most disturbing incidents is the alleged abuse of a four-year-old boy by his stepfather. The child was rescued and moved to the safe house following approval from the family. “The home environment is no longer safe. We prioritize emotional and physical recovery,” Dedy explained.

He added that children in such cases often suffer lingering trauma. Access to consistent psychological care in a safe, nurturing environment is key to recovery.

Long-Term Prevention and Community Involvement

UPTD PPA stresses that reporting by the community is vital. “We urge citizens to speak up and report violence immediately. This is the only way we can stop the cycle,” Dedy said.

In 2024, Batam recorded even higher figures—219 child abuse cases and 47 cases involving women—highlighting the urgency for collective intervention. Building long-term awareness, especially in communities, is critical to reducing future cases.

The surge in violence against women and children in Batam is a grim reminder of the challenges Indonesia faces in safeguarding its vulnerable populations. With Singaporean and regional observers closely watching cross-border social indicators, the data underscores the pressing need for public engagement, stronger protections, and cross-sector collaboration to ensure a safer future for all.

Sources: Batam Pos (2025) , Antara Kepri (2025)

Keywords: Batam Child Abuse, Batam Women Violence, UPTD PPA Batam, Sexual Violence Indonesia, Safe House Batam, Dedy Suryadi