Three teenagers accused of harassing a Singaporean tourist in Braga Street, Bandung, West Java, have issued apologies. The apologies were made through an online video released to the media. In the video, the trio clarified that their actions were unintentional. A 17-year-old teenager from Cimaung, Bandung, admitted that his hand accidentally touched the victim’s body. Here is their clarification statement:
“Yes, I and my two friends were in the viral video with the Singaporean tourist on December 29, 2024, when we were on our way to watch Persib at Braga Sky. Coincidentally, my friend and I were walking with the Singaporean tourist who was making a vlog. When my friend tried to pass by and say sorry, his hand accidentally touched the tourist’s body.”
“We apologize for the incident, and if our actions were not well received, we apologize to the tourist and the people of Bandung. Once again, we apologize for the discomfort and commotion,” said the perpetrator in the video.
Bandung City Police Chief, Commissioner Budi Sartono, mentioned that the teenagers were curious about the victim who was making a vlog in English. The incident did not occur on New Year’s Eve but on December 29, 2024, when the three suspects were watching a Persib match at Braga Sky during halftime break. They were looking for food and encountered the victim while she was vlogging.
### Case Details
The incident gained attention after the vlog was uploaded on Thursday, January 2, 2025, on YouTube by the victim, Darien, and Joanna, a married couple from Singapore. In the video, Joanna, the victim of harassment, explained the sequence of events. The harassment took place while she and her husband were filming on Braga Street around 6:57 PM local time. Her husband was speaking in front of the camera while walking, with Joanna by his side.
This case has sparked discussions about cultural sensitivity, respect for personal space, and the impact of viral videos on individuals’ lives. It serves as a reminder of the importance of being mindful of one’s actions towards others, especially in public spaces where interactions can be easily recorded and shared online. Let us reflect on how we can contribute to creating a safer and more respectful environment for everyone, both online and offline.
