Jakarta. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin has temporarily suspended the anesthesiology program at Diponegoro University’s Dr. Kariadi General Hospital following the suicide of Aulia Risma Lestari, 30, a resident doctor in the specialist education program.

The decision, effective for one week starting Thursday, is part of an investigation into whether depression, potentially linked to bullying, was a contributing factor in her death.

Budi revealed that during the suspension period, authorities have obtained a crucial piece of evidence: the victim’s diary. Investigators will examine the diary to determine if the victim’s depression was a primary factor in her suicide.

“The diary contains detailed entries about the victim’s life, which we hope will expedite the investigation process,” Budi said at the Vice Presidential Palace in Central Jakarta on Thursday.

He added that the evidence is currently under review by local police. “The diary’s entries are quite specific, and we will verify the events mentioned. If proven, anyone involved will face strict penalties,” he said.

Budi emphasized that once the diary investigation concludes, the Health Ministry will impose severe sanctions on any Undip Faculty of Medicine doctors found guilty of bullying. This decision is reinforced by the autopsy results confirming that the victim died by suicide.

Additionally, the Health Ministry will urge Undip to implement comprehensive reforms in its education system. Budi stressed that bullying is unacceptable under any circumstances, even as a method to toughen the workforce.

“We also call for improvements in the anesthesiology education at Diponegoro University and Kariadi Hospital to prevent such bullying incidents. We can build a resilient workforce without risking lives,” he concluded.

In a press statement, Diponegoro University denied the bullying allegations, stating that ARL had health issues that impacted her studies. However, they did not elaborate on the nature of ARL’s health problems.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or crisis, please reach out to https://www.intothelightid.org/tentang-bunuh-diri/hotline-dan-konseling.