Preserving Memory, Urging Victim Recovery, Preventing Recurrence

Commemorating the May 1998 Tragedy 

“Preserving Memory, Urging Victim Recovery, Preventing Recurrence” 

Jakarta, May 16, 2025 

Commemorating the 27th anniversary of the May 1998 Tragedy, the National Commission on Violence Against Women (Komnas Perempuan) reiterates the importance of preserving the nation’s collective memory of past gross human rights violations during the mass rapes and riots, and urges the state to fulfill the victims’ rights, particularly the right to comprehensive and effective reparations. Even to this day, this tragedy is truly a dark moment in Indonesian history that has left deep wounds for the victims and their families, as well as the wider community. Therefore, this commemoration is an important moment for Komnas Perempuan as a means of supporting the fulfilment of victims’ rights to truth, justice, and non-recurrence. 

Komnas Perempuan was founded at the urge of civil society, particularly the women's movement, in response to the May 1998 Tragedy and the sexual violence against women that occurred during the major riots in Jakarta, Medan, Surabaya, Solo, Palembang, and various other cities. This pressure led to the issuance of Presidential Decree No. 181 of 1998, which established Komnas Perempuan. 

Komnas Perempuan Commissioner Daden Sukendar stated, “Preserving the memory of the May 1998 Tragedy is part of this nation's collective responsibility. Without a clear memory and courage to confront the past, we risk repeating similar violence. The fight for recognition, justice, and reparation for victims must continue, including through basic services such as healthcare.” 

Komnas Perempuan notes that most victims are now elderly, living in poverty, and often without family support. The state needs to ensure concrete, effective, comprehensive, and sustainable recovery policies, including easy access to specialized health services for victims of past gross human rights violations, such as pick-up services or bypassing queues. 

Meanwhile, Commissioner Chatarina Pancer Istiyani emphasized the importance of victim involvement in the resolution process. “Meaningful healing can only be achieved if victims are actively involved in the process. Respect for their experiences and voices is the foundation of true justice," Chatarina said. 

As part of its efforts to preserve memory and prevent recurrence, Komnas Perempuan regularly holds memorialization activities with survivors, victim advocates, and civil society networks. One such activity is Napak Reformasi, a collective reflection on the struggle for democracy and justice, and a reminder that the Reform agenda remains incomplete as long as human rights violations remain comprehensively and fairly unaddressed. 

“Memorial preservation initiatives have also emerged from civil society in various regions and through various activities, such as discussions, dissemination of content through social media, and other means, as a form of monitoring the implementation of commitments from the government, legislative, and judicial branches to uphold victims’ rights," Daden continued. 

Komnas Perempuan calls on all elements of the nation to preserve collective memory and fight for justice for all victims of past gross human rights violations in Indonesia. 

Contact Person: Elsa (081389371400)