Zero-Tolerance Commitment: Implementing the PSEAH Policy in the Malaria Perdhaki Program

MALARIA PERDHAKI–Sumba. In Indonesia, discussions about sexuality still often trigger discomfort and are considered taboo in public spaces. Yet behind this silence lies a reality that cannot be ignored: educating people about bodily boundaries and self-protection is an obligation.

The urgency of this issue is clearly reflected in the findings of the Survey on Violence and Harassment in the Indonesian Workplace, released by the International Labour Organization (ILO) in collaboration with the Never Okay Project Coalition. The survey revealed that approximately 70% to 71% of workers in Indonesia have experienced violence or sexual harassment in the workplace. More than 42% of victims chose to remain silent. Fear, limited information about reporting procedures, and the normalization of harassment in everyday life are among the primary reasons. It may sound like a familiar issue, but the reality remains deeply concerning.

Malaria Perdhaki is committed to breaking this cycle of silence and inaction. The organization strives to equip its staff and malaria cadres with a comprehensive understanding of Protection from Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH). This issue is also a major concern of the Global Fund, the donor organization supporting the Malaria Perdhaki Program.

For this reason, PSEAH is consistently included in every training activity conducted by Malaria Perdhaki, from malaria cadre training to training sessions for key community leaders. One such session took place during the Health Cadre Training held in Teluk Wondama from June 9–13, 2026, and was delivered by Rosa Dee Panda, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer of PR Malaria Perdhaki.  

Similarly, during the Communication Strategy and Community Mobilization Training for Key Leaders of the Malaria Perdhaki Program in the East Nusa Tenggara Region, held at Hotel Sima on June 18–20, 2026, Ard Dallo, Program Manager of SR PWKA Ende, presented the PSEAH policy to village heads and other community leaders.

According to Dr. Yohanes Ari Hermawan, Program Manager of PR Malaria Perdhaki, the Global Fund enforces a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of sexual misconduct. “Therefore, in every training session—from staff members and malaria cadres to key community leaders—PSEAH material is mandatory and must be presented,” emphasized Dr. Ari.

This initiative is far more than a formality; it is a commitment to protecting human dignity. By integrating PSEAH into its training curriculum, Malaria Perdhaki and the Global Fund ensure that personal safety and the prevention of sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment become fundamental principles in the implementation of every Malaria Perdhaki program. This commitment aims to create a safe and respectful environment for everyone.