Viral video shows bruised face of NTT domestic worker allegedly assaulted by employer in Batam

A domestic worker from NTT was brutally beaten in Batam by her employer and co-worker. The viral case has sparked outrage and police investigation.

A Cry for Help Reveals Shocking Abuse

A disturbing case of alleged abuse has emerged from an elite housing complex in Sukajadi, Batam, where a domestic worker identified as Intan was reportedly beaten by her employer and a fellow worker. The victim, a young woman from West Sumba, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), was found with a swollen face and multiple bruises across her body.

The abuse surfaced after Intan borrowed a neighbor’s phone to contact her family, prompting a swift response from the Flobamora Batam community—an association representing migrants from Flores, Sumba, Timor, and Alor. Jesicha, a Flobamora team member, confirmed that they visited the house on Sunday, June 22, 2025, to collect statements and assist the victim.

Employer Orders Fellow Worker to Join Assault

According to Intan’s account to Flobamora, not only did her employer carry out the assault, but he also ordered another domestic worker to participate. When the Flobamora team arrived, the male employer fled the scene. However, his wife and the second domestic worker involved were located and questioned.

Jesicha emphasized the brutality of the incident, stating, “The male employer escaped, but we managed to speak with his wife and the victim’s colleague who also assaulted her.”

Medical Treatment and Police Report

Intan was rushed to Elisabeth Hospital in Batam Kota for treatment. According to Yulius, head of the Flobamora Batam team, Intan remains under medical care due to severe trauma and multiple injuries, particularly to her eyes. “The trauma is serious. Her eyes are badly bruised, and she has deep emotional distress,” Yulius stated.

The organization is now assisting Intan in pursuing justice by filing a formal police report. Iptu Bobby Ramadhana Fauzi, Head of Criminal Investigation at Batam Kota Police, confirmed that they advised the victim to report the incident to the Barelang Police Precinct.

Police Begin Formal Investigation

Barelang Police’s Criminal Investigation Unit has launched an official inquiry. AKP Debby Andrestian confirmed that an investigation is underway. “We’ve received the report and are currently examining the case. The victim remains in recovery at Elisabeth Hospital,” said Debby.

Police are also expected to question the employer’s wife and the co-worker involved in the alleged assault. Authorities have yet to confirm the whereabouts of the male employer who fled the scene.

Community Calls for Justice

The case has triggered outrage across social media, especially after videos showing Intan’s swollen face and bedridden condition went viral. The Flobamora community and human rights advocates are demanding swift action to ensure justice and greater protection for domestic workers in Indonesia.

This tragic incident highlights the persistent vulnerability of domestic workers, especially those from rural Indonesian regions like NTT. As the investigation unfolds, both Indonesians and Singaporeans—many of whom employ migrant domestic helpers—are reminded of the importance of upholding human dignity, protection, and accountability in domestic labor settings.

Sources: Batam Pos (2025) , Tribun Batam (2025)

Keywords: Domestic Worker, Sukajadi Batam, NTT Migrant, Employer Abuse, Viral Video, Police Report