In the CAKEPP program aired on TVOneNews’ YouTube channel, public policy expert Dr. Vishnu Juwono, who also lectures at the Faculty of Administrative Sciences, Universitas Indonesia (FIA UI), addressed the controversy surrounding the military barrack program for students labeled as “troubled.” Initiated by the Governor of West Java, the program is intended as a form of character-building rather than punishment.

According to Dr. Vishnu, the policy has sparked both support and criticism from the public and human rights observers. Many question whether the initiative offers a real solution or merely legitimizes violence, potentially leading to psychological trauma for participating students.

“Several countries have implemented similar measures,” Dr. Vishnu explained. “Japan uses strict training programs for juvenile rehabilitation; Thailand and Belarus send youths to military camps to instill discipline and patriotism; and in Somalia, troubled teens are placed in military camps often marked by violence and poor conditions.”

Dr. Vishnu pointed out that students involved in violent behavior are often victims of fragile social systems, dysfunctional families, peer pressure, and a lack of safe spaces for expression.

“This policy targets the symptoms rather than the root causes. Without improvements in education systems, youth-oriented public spaces, and family involvement, disciplinary actions only produce short-term deterrence without meaningful behavioral change,” he added.

Dr. Vishnu proposed three key recommendations. First, he suggested establishing youth behavioral recovery centers in major cities, involving collaboration between education and social service agencies, psychologists, and security personnel. These centers would provide psychological support, vocational training, and family reconciliation.

Second, he recommended that provincial governments develop data-driven maps of youth delinquency risks, using integrated digital systems that connect schools, neighborhood offices, and public health centers.

“Third, military or police barracks should only be used as a last resort, with a rehabilitative approach that is voluntary and based on professional assessments tailored to each child’s character and background,” he emphasized.

Dr. Vishnu concluded by stressing that not all children respond well to harsh approaches. Public policies must be adaptive to the diverse personalities and social conditions of youth. While discipline is important, building the character of the nation’s future generation requires more than toughness—it requires a state that is intelligent, empathetic, and capable of understanding problems at their roots.