JAYAPURA - Assistant II of the Papua Regional Secretariat, Setiyo Wahyudi, said that violence against children is a serious problem that needs special attention.

Therefore, Setiyo gives full support to the efforts of the Papua Regional Child Protection Commission (KPAD) in dealing with the problem of child violence.

"Because children are the nation's assets and they have the right to grow and feel a life full of affection."

"But in fact, we are still witnessing children being victims of violence in many places that can threaten their future. So this needs special attention," he explained in Jayapura, Thursday (5/12/2024).

Setiyo added that in facing these challenges, his party realizes that preventing and overcoming violence against children is not an easy task. Collaboration and synergy are needed between the government, community institutions, the business world and all parties concerned about the future of children in Papua.

"The Papuan government, through various existing programs and policies, is committed to working hard to protect children. We will also continue to take an approach based on local wisdom in safeguarding and protecting our children," he said.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Regional Child Protection Commission of Papua, Yohana Itlay, said that the problem of violence against children still occurs in her area. Both physical, psychological, sexual and other violence.

She even recorded 104 cases of violence against children in 2024. 34 cases occurred in boys, while 70 cases occurred in girls.

"There are so many problems of violence against children in Papua. Those who are the hope of the nation are in a state of concern," she said.

Meanwhile, one problem that occurs in children is a case of neglect. This condition can be seen from the number of street children in Papua.

"So, we need to fix this problem with related agencies, such as the police, local governments and others."

"Some solutions such as returning to parents, placing them in a safe house or the local government guaranteeing these children," she said. ***