T

he number of child abuse cases has reached an alarming level in Greater Jakarta, with 2,637 cases reported last year — 1,075 of these cases had some sexual dimension (The Jakarta Post, March 19).

Mostly, the cases involved the people who were closest to the victims. The perpetrators chose children as the target because they were weak.

Usually, they do not have the courage to reveal the culprits because they are under threat. A 16-year-old girl identified as DR is allegedly carrying her biological father’s unborn child. She was repeatedly raped by her father. Children must be protected and given affection so that they will have a bright future.

While many children are growing up with a bad life, this country will never develop because the children, who are key for the future, are burdened by traumatic experiences. This is a serious problem and the perpetrators should get tough punishment.

This country’s future depends on our children. When they are well protected, then we have hope.

Magain Ratu Taufan Rumalean
Jakarta