LANGKAT | INDATANEWS.COM ~ Two children in Salapian District, Langkat Regency, North Sumatra, Indonesia, have been named as witnesses in an investigation into alleged terrorist activities. The Ministry of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (KemenPPPA) emphasized the importance of ensuring full protection and comprehensive rehabilitation for the children during the ongoing legal process.
Multi-Agency Coordination for Child Protection
Minister Arifah Fauzi explained that the ministry is coordinating closely with the Langkat Regional Technical Implementation Unit for Women and Child Protection, the Police Unit for Women and Child Protection in Langkat, the Social Services Department, the Rehabilitative Center, and the Special Detachment 88 Anti-Terror team of the Indonesian National Police to safeguard the children's rights.
"In every legal process, children must receive maximum protection, including psychological support, identity protection, and access to developmental rights. We appreciate the swift measures taken from the early stages of the investigation, always prioritizing the best interest of the children," Arifah stated on Monday, February 2, 2026.
Radical Exposure and Its Impact on Children
Investigations reveal that both children were reportedly exposed to radical ideologies through social media. Psychological assessments identified vulnerabilities in cognitive, emotional, and social acceptance areas, although no severe behavioral disorders were detected.
Arifah stressed that recovery efforts should involve family, school, and the broader social environment to support optimal rehabilitation. She also highlighted the digital space as a critical area for preventing the spread of violent ideologies to children.
"We must ensure children receive proper psychological support, character development, and a safe, supportive environment to grow and thrive," Arifah added.
Community Oversight and Collaborative Prevention
The case highlights the importance of parental supervision, digital literacy, and family strengthening to protect children from extremist ideologies. Arifah underscored the need for cross-sector collaboration involving local government, law enforcement, educational institutions, and the wider community.
"We all share the responsibility to ensure children grow up in a safe, peaceful environment, free from extremist influence," she concluded. (IDNC)