As residents of Malang, we have a vital role to play in ensuring the safety and well-being of the children around us. Sometimes, we may suspect a child is experiencing neglect or abandonment by a parent or guardian. These situations can be very sensitive and confusing, but taking the right steps is crucial to protecting children from harm.
Suspecting parental or guardian negligence is a serious matter. In Indonesia, child neglect is regulated by Law Number 35 of 2014 concerning Amendments to Law Number 23 of 2002 concerning Child Protection . This law clearly defines neglect as a form of neglect that is subject to legal sanctions.
Here’s a practical guide on what to do if you suspect child neglect in Malang.
1. Recognize the Signs of Neglect
Before acting, it’s important to distinguish between a difficult family situation and harmful neglect. Neglect can take many forms, including:
- Physical Neglect: Children often appear dirty, unkempt, or inadequately fed. They may frequently miss school without a clear reason or may not receive necessary medical care.
- Emotional Neglect: The child shows signs of anxiety, depression, or severe emotional instability. They may withdraw from social interactions or exhibit unusual behavior.
- Educational Neglect: Children are not enrolled in school or are not given the opportunity to receive a proper education.
- Medical Negligence: A parent or guardian refuses or neglects to provide medical care necessary for a child’s health condition.
- Unsafe Environment: The child lives in an unhealthy, dirty, or dangerous environment (e.g., exposure to drugs or violence).
2. Collect Information Wisely and Safely
If you see any of the above signs, you need to gather more detailed information without putting yourself or your child in danger.
- Observe and Document: Note the date, time, and location where you observe suspicious behavior or conditions. Be specific about what you see.
- Avoid Direct Intervention, Which is Highly Risky: Confronting a parent or guardian directly can be dangerous for both you and the child. Focus on observation and reporting.
3. Report to the Authorities in Malang
Once you’re certain there’s good reason to be suspicious, the next step is to report it to the authorities. In Malang, there are several agencies you can contact:
- The National Commission for Child Protection (Komnas PA) or the Malang Regional Child Protection Agency (LPA): These are non-governmental organizations dedicated to protecting children. They have a team trained to handle cases like this sensitively and professionally. You can find their contact information in Malang.
- Malang City Social Services: The Social Services plays a role in handling cases of child neglect and protection. They can conduct investigations and provide necessary assistance.
- Indonesian National Police (Polri) – Women and Children Protection Unit (PPA): If you suspect serious physical violence or neglect, report it immediately to the PPA Unit at the nearest Malang Police or Sector Police. They have the authority to conduct a criminal investigation.
- Malang City Integrated Service Center for Women and Children Empowerment (P2TP2A): P2TP2A provides integrated services, including counseling, legal assistance, and temporary shelter for victims of violence and child neglect.
4. Keep Your Identity Confidential
When reporting, please request that your identity be kept confidential. Child protection agencies understand the importance of maintaining confidentiality to prevent retaliation.
5. Act Quickly
Unaddressed neglect can have long-term, damaging effects on a child’s physical and mental health. Don’t delay taking action. Your actions can be the difference between a child’s safety and harm.
As a caring community, we have a moral responsibility to be the eyes and ears of vulnerable children. By knowing what to do, we can play an active role in creating a safer environment for all children in Malang.
