Following a series of sexual harassment allegations involving a sport massage therapist at Jakarta’s Gelora Bung Karno (GBK), the running community is re-evaluating safety protocols and how to vet professional coaches.
The situation escalated on Monday, November 9, when multiple victims filed reports with law enforcement. Salah satu korban berinisial L melaporkan dugaan kekerasan seksual ke Polda Metro Jaya pada Senin (9/11), menurut laporan. Separately, a victim identified as J filed a report with the police, as reported by Kompas. A second victim, identified as RS, also filed a report at the Polda Metro Jaya on the same afternoon.
Polda Metro Jaya spokesperson Kombes Pol Budi Hermanto confirmed the investigation is underway, noting that police are collecting statements from victims and witnesses while analyzing evidence. The allegations surfaced after several women shared their experiences on social media.
One victim reported that during a sport massage session for back and leg pain on October 18, the therapist asked her to unhook her bra and subsequently touched her chest and breasts. The therapist later issued an apology on Threads, expressing regret for the discomfort caused.
The Central Executive of the Indonesian Trail Running Association (PP ALTI) has officially committed to creating a running environment free from sexual violence. The organization expressed strong condemnation of such acts within the sports world. To ensure accountability, PP ALTI has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward perpetrators.
“Tidak ada ruang sedikit pun bagi pelaku kekerasan seksual di komunitas lari trail Indonesia,” said the organization. For victims within the trail running community, the association is providing a reporting channel via direct messages on their official Instagram account. PP ALTI announced it will coordinate with the Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) regarding advocacy, psychological support, and long-term prevention strategies.
“Mungkin dari saya, kalau bisa yang utama itu memang harus benar-benar dari pendidikan olahraga. Terus sama yang bersertifikat gitu. Dan tak kalah penting itu ya integritasnya,” said Ari Masrudy to detikcom on Friday, November 13.
Ari said that certifications should be obtained from official organizations such as the All Indonesia Athletics Association (PB PASI). “Tapi kan yang lebih menjamin itu kan memang ini, integritasnya aja sebagai seorang coach,” he added. Kumbang, founder of GBK Night Run, said that communities must foster a culture of mutual respect, consent, and clear behavioral rules.
He emphasized that physical interaction, including massage or coaching adjustments, should never be assumed to be welcome. “Setiap anggota perlu membiasakan diri meminta izin sebelum melakukan kontak fisik,” according to Kompas. Chairman of the Indonesian National Sports Committee (KONI) Marciano Norman condemned the incidents. “Saya mengecam keras tindakan kekerasan seksual dalam dunia olahraga. Olahraga adalah tempat sportivitas dijunjung tinggi untuk tujuan mulia,” said Marciano on Tuesday, November 10.
