The May 1998 Tragedy in the Course of the Nation's Journey: In Denial

“For the victims and their families who continue to rise above; for those who did their part in helping victims at the time of the incidents; and for the tireless advocates of the victims. They are our heroes”

This publication is presented by Komnas Perempuan as a tribute to their courage and resilience, and as a commitment to ensuring that their experiences are acknowledged, remembered, and never denied. Komnas Perempuan presents this publication as part of its ongoing effort to document and reflect on the May 1998 Tragedy, a defining moment marked by widespread violence, including sexual violence against women. More than two decades later, the memory of these events remains contested, shaped by persistent denial at both state and societal levels. In the absence of accountability and meaningful follow up to past investigations, many survivors continue to struggle for recognition, justice, and the right to be heard.

This publication brings together testimonies, reflections, and historical accounts that not only document the gravity of the violations but also give voice to the lived experiences of survivors. It captures stories of loss, resilience, and survival, revealing how women have endured profound trauma while continuing to reclaim agency over their lives. At its core, this work challenges the silence that has long surrounded these events and insists on the legitimacy of women’s experiences as part of the nation’s history.

Beyond recounting the tragedy, the publication traces the emergence of collective responses in its aftermath. It highlights the role of Komnas Perempuan and the broader women’s movement in transforming grief and injustice into sustained advocacy, memory work, and demands for change. Contributions from activists, artists, and civil society actors further reflect the diverse ways in which resistance, healing, and solidarity have taken shape.

This publication stands as both a record of injustice and a testament to endurance. It affirms the voices of survivors, honors those who have supported them, and calls for continued vigilance to ensure that denial is confronted and such violence is never allowed to fade into silence.