Disabled Child Dies in Surabaya, DPR Member Calls for Monitoring of Bullying Perpetrators

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Vice Chairman of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Singgih Januratmoko, has called for monitoring of children suspected to be involved in the case concerning the death of Z (10), a child with disabilities in Surabaya, even after they are returned to their parents.

Singgih emphasized that returning the children to their parents does not mean the issue is resolved. Continuous support and guidance are necessary for the children to understand the consequences of their actions and to prevent recurrence.

“When children are in conflict with the law and are underage, the approach must prioritize their best interests. However, that does not mean the problem is over when the children return to their parents,” Singgih told reporters on Monday (18/10/2026).

“There must be support and guidance to help the children understand the impact of their actions and to prevent them from engaging in behaviors that endanger others,” he added.

On the other hand, Singgih reminded that handling of the children involved should not overlook the needs of the victim’s family, who are experiencing significant loss.

According to Singgih, this support must be ongoing, not just when the case attracts public attention.

“The victim's family also needs psychological, social support, and assistance according to their needs,” said Singgih.

He appreciated the regional government's steps to provide psychological support to both the victim's family and the families of the children involved.

Singgih reiterated that the guidance should be continuous and not solely contingent on public attention to the case.

He also stressed the importance of protecting children with disabilities.

He reminded that differences in children's conditions should never justify bullying, exclusion, or unfair treatment.

“Children with disabilities must receive the same level of protection. Society needs to understand that differences in children's conditions are not excuses for bullying, ostracizing, or mistreating them,” he asserted.

The Golkar politician hopes this case will serve as a momentum to strengthen child protection and build a safe environment for children with disabilities.

“What we need is not just a reaction after incidents occur, but a functioning prevention system. Parents, schools, local governments, law enforcement, and society must be attuned to signs of violence and bullying,” Singgih concluded.

Previously reported, the Surabaya Police are still processing two children identified as I and U, who are suspected of involvement in Z's death, a child with Down syndrome in Rungkut District, Surabaya.