Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection Bintang Puspayoga praised the Wajo regency administration for its success in reducing child marriage rates. "Based on the 2023 data from the BPS, child marriage rates in Wajo regency have declined to 6.92 percent, a significant decrease from 8.06 percent in 2022. The considerable reduction in marriage dispensation cases, from 694 in 2021 to 77 in 2023, highlights this accomplishment," she said on Thursday (28/3/2024), citing the Central Statistics Agency. Acknowledging the complexity of addressing child marriage, she underscored the strenuous efforts made by the Wajo regency administration, as reported by antaranews.com. In 2023, two sub-districts within Wajo, namely Sajoanging and Takkallalla, reported zero cases of child marriage. "This outcome demonstrates the commitment and collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including local authorities, religious leaders, community influencers, and civil society organizations, in effectively addressing issues concerning women and children, particularly child marriage," Minister Bintang remarked. Emphasizing the critical importance of preventing child marriage, she highlighted its potential adverse effects on health and its contribution to an increased risk of domestic violence, both physical and sexual. (mg/inp/pr/nm)