In Indonesia, according to 2016 UNICEF statistics, 49% of girls between birth and 14 years old have undergone FGM/C. Nearly 3 in 4 girls underwent the procedure when they were less than 6 months old, some even having these procedures done before they were 30 days old. In 2006, the Indonesia Ministry of Health issued a letter prohibiting female genital mutilation/circumcision done by medical professionals, however in 2010 the Ministry issued a decree (PMK No. 1636/2010) that allowed only licensed doctors, midwives, and nurses to practice FGM/C and that it should only be performed upon request by the person, or their parent or guardian. Nearly every single hospital, including private maternity clinics, continued to perform female circumcision so that it would be done in a cleaner, safer environment. In February 2014, the Women’s Commission in Indonesia and the Committee on the Rights of the Child, after persistent advocation, got the decree PMK No. 1636/2010 repealed, however there are no sanctions on those who conduct FGM/C despite the decree being invalid.

“Indonesia Statistical Profile on Female Genital Mutilation/Cutting.” UNICEF, Feb. 2016.