Indonesia Records 116 Suicides Among Children in 2023-2025

A concerning trend of juvenile suicide is gaining attention in Indonesia, with cases reported across numerous regions. The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) reports that while not a new issue, childhood suicide is often overlooked despite discernible patterns.

Rising Concerns and Recent Cases

The issue resurfaced recently following the death of a fourth-grade student in East Nusa Tenggara on February 5, 2026, who was found dead by hanging. This case has amplified existing worries about the mental health of young people in the country.

Data Reveals a Growing Problem

KPAI has been tracking these incidents for the past three years. In 2023, the commission recorded 46 suicide cases involving children aged 10 to 17. This number decreased to 43 cases in 2024, affecting children aged 13 to 17, and further declined to 27 cases in 2025 among those aged 11 to 18.

Did You Know? From 2023 to 2025, KPAI recorded a total of 116 juvenile suicides across Indonesia.

These tragedies are not isolated to specific areas. Cases have been reported in Denpasar, Yogyakarta, Toraja, Banyuwangi, Kebumen, Makassar, Bogor, Blitar, Cirebon, Sukabumi, Pekalongan, Kolhua, Bandung, and Aceh, indicating a widespread issue.

Underlying Factors and Potential Triggers

A variety of factors appear to contribute to these heartbreaking decisions. KPAI identified bullying, relationship breakups, seemingly minor disciplinary actions like phone confiscation or being denied a leisure activity, depression, economic hardship, feelings of inadequacy, and family dynamics as potential causes.

According to Dyah Puspitarini, a commissioner at KPAI, the influence of online content, including games and websites promoting suicide, may also play a role. As of February 13, 2026, KPAI had already recorded four juvenile suicide cases for the year.

Expert Insight: The wide range of factors contributing to juvenile suicide suggests a complex interplay of individual vulnerabilities and societal pressures. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach focusing on both immediate crisis intervention and long-term preventative measures.

Looking Ahead

Addressing this crisis could involve increased mental health support within families, schools, and communities. Further research may be needed to understand the specific patterns and risk factors within different regions of Indonesia. It is also possible that public awareness campaigns could help destigmatize mental health issues and encourage young people to seek help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is KPAI’s role in addressing juvenile suicide?

The Indonesian Child Protection Commission (KPAI) collects data on suicide among children aged 10 to 17 and raises awareness about the issue.

What are some of the reasons children are taking their lives?

Reasons include bullying, breakups, disciplinary actions, depression, economic problems, feelings of inadequacy, and family issues.

Has the number of juvenile suicides been consistent over the past three years?

The number of recorded cases has fluctuated, with 46 in 2023, 43 in 2024, and 27 in 2025.

What more can be done to support the mental wellbeing of young people in Indonesia?