SURABAYA, JurnalPost.com — Issues of domestic violence (DV) and poor communication between spouses have become a focal point for Rendy Arrofi, a law student at the University of 17 Agustus 1945 (Untag) Surabaya, following his observations of court proceedings at the Surabaya Religious Court.
Through this activity, Rendy gained insight into the various problems that can arise in domestic life, ultimately leading to divorce. According to him, family conflicts should not be viewed solely from a legal perspective, but also through the lenses of communication, family welfare, and the critical importance of protecting women and children.
Rendy believes that domestic issues often stem from misunderstandings that are not properly resolved. A lack of open communication, differing viewpoints, and an inability to manage conflict can exacerbate relationships. In certain situations, unaddressed conflict also has the potential to escalate into acts of violence.
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"From observing the hearings, I see that domestic conflict must be understood seriously. Poor communication can amplify misunderstandings, while domestic violence is an issue that should not be considered merely a private matter. The safety and dignity of every family member must remain a priority," said Rendy.
However, he emphasized that every divorce case has different backgrounds and facts. Not all divorces are caused by domestic violence or poor communication between spouses.
According to him, these issues serve as a reminder that society needs a better understanding of healthy marital relationships, the responsibilities of husbands and wives, and how to resolve differences without resorting to violence.
Government Urged to Strengthen Marriage Education
Rendy believes the government plays a vital role in building family resilience through improved marriage education and the provision of support services for the public.
These efforts should not be limited to setting a minimum age for marriage but must also be supported by pre-marital education, family counseling, parenting education, and easy access to protection services for victims of violence.
He suggests that marriage education should be provided on an ongoing basis, both to couples planning to marry and to those already building a household.
This is important because marital readiness is not determined by age alone; it also relates to emotional maturity, communication skills, economic preparedness, and an understanding of rights and obligations within a family.
Under Indonesian law, Law Number 16 of 2019, which amends Law Number 1 of 1974 concerning Marriage, sets the minimum age for marriage for both men and women at 19 years.
This provision serves as an instrument of protection in marriage. However, Rendy believes that meeting age requirements must be balanced with mental readiness and the ability to build a responsible relationship.
Education regarding healthy communication, emotional management, conflict resolution, and parenting is considered helpful for couples facing the various challenges of domestic life.
Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence Must Be a Priority
In addition to advocating for stronger marriage education, Rendy emphasized the importance of legal protection for victims of domestic violence.
He argues that domestic violence should not be viewed as a private matter that can be resolved within the family without regard for the victim's safety.
Acts of violence can have serious physical and psychological impacts. Therefore, victims must have access to legal protection, support, and adequate recovery services.
In Indonesia, protection for victims of domestic violence is legally grounded in Law Number 23 of 2004 concerning the Elimination of Domestic Violence.
This law regulates prevention efforts, victim protection, and the prosecution of perpetrators of violence within the domestic sphere.
Rendy believes that the existence of regulations must be followed by effective implementation. The government, law enforcement, service agencies, and the community all have a role in ensuring victims receive the necessary assistance.
He also reminded that efforts to maintain family integrity should not come at the expense of the safety and dignity of family members experiencing violence.
Child Welfare Must Not Be Overlooked
In Rendy's view, domestic conflict not only impacts the relationship between husband and wife but can also affect a child's development.
Children require a family environment that provides a sense of security, attention, affection, and responsible parenting. A healthy relationship between parents helps create an atmosphere that supports a child's emotional and social growth.
Conversely, prolonged conflict and domestic violence have the potential to cause psychological distress, especially if the child witnesses or directly experiences acts of violence.
Therefore, the best interests of the child must be a primary concern in any effort to resolve family issues.
Rendy emphasized that protecting children does not always mean maintaining a marriage under all circumstances. If there is violence that endangers the safety of family members, protection for victims and children must be the priority.
"The government needs to view marriage education as a long-term social investment. The younger generation needs to be equipped with the readiness to build a family, healthy communication, parenting skills, and conflict resolution. At the same time, the state must ensure that victims of violence are not left to face their problems alone," said Rendy.
Court Observations Provide Lessons for Law Students
The experience of observing hearings at the Surabaya Religious Court provided Rendy with academic insight into the relationship between family issues and the legal process of resolving cases.
Through this activity, students can see that divorce cases are not only about the end of a marital relationship but also involve various rights, obligations, and the interests of family members.
This experience serves as a reminder that domestic issues require attention from various parties, not only when a conflict has reached the courtroom but also through preventative measures from the start.
Rendy hopes that the government and the public will pay increasing attention to the importance of marriage education, the strengthening of family counseling services, and protection for groups vulnerable to violence.
According to him, ongoing preventative steps can help improve public understanding of the importance of building healthy and mutually respectful family relationships.
Through strengthened marriage education, protection for domestic violence victims, and attention to child welfare, it is hoped that a safer, more responsible family environment can be created, capable of supporting the growth and development of future generations.
Relevant Legal Basis
Law Number 16 of 2019 concerning the Amendment to Law Number 1 of 1974 concerning Marriage, specifically Article 7 regarding the minimum age for marriage.
Law Number 23 of 2004 concerning the Elimination of Domestic Violence, which regulates the prevention of domestic violence, protection of victims, and the handling of acts of violence within the domestic sphere.
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