Alleged bullying death of 16-year-old in Indonesia renews fears of school violence

A 16-year-old student's death in Lumajang, East Java, allegedly due to bullying by a classmate, has prompted renewed scrutiny of Indonesia's efforts to combat school violence. The student, identified by the initials MI, passed away on June 24 after a period of treatment at Haryoto General Hospital.

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Post-mortem examination showed that the cause of death was a blunt-force injury to the head, and the doctors said the injury had occurred some time ago.

MI's older brother, Ahmad Dani, stated that the teenager's death followed an alleged assault by a classmate at SMP PGRI Sukodono Junior High School on May 18. A post-mortem examination revealed the cause of death as a blunt-force injury to the head, with doctors noting the injury had occurred some time prior. MI's family filed a police report on June 23, the day before the student died.

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The victim refused because he believed he was not the one who had thrown the trash there.

According to Lumajang Police spokesperson Suprapto, the classmate, identified only as S, has been designated a child in conflict with the law. Suprapto detailed that the alleged assault occurred when S instructed MI to clean trash under his desk. MI reportedly refused, believing it was not his responsibility. S then allegedly punched MI three times, causing his head to strike the classroom wall.

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The first blow landed on the victim’s chest, the second struck his arm, and the third hit his mouth, causing his head to jerk backward and strike the classroom wall.

Despite initial injuries including a cut lip and dizziness, MI continued attending school. However, his condition worsened in late May, leading to hospitalization due to gum bleeding. His health continued to decline until his death. Lumajang Regent Indah Amperawati has pledged to enhance student protection by improving communication and oversight within educational institutions, aiming to foster a safe and respectful learning environment. This incident follows another serious bullying case in West Nusa Tenggara, where a student died and two others were injured after allegedly being set on fire by seniors.

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The goal is to create a safe, inclusive and conducive learning environment. We hope every school can continue building an environment that is safe, comfortable and based on mutual respect.