“Pasung”, (means chained in Indonesian) shackling people with psychosocial disabilities, remains common in Indonesia despite being banned since 1977. The belief that mental illness is a curse or moral failing drives families to shamans or unregulated healing centers. Conditions are dire with some people still chained in filthy, overcrowded spaces. Some receive unregulated drugs or shock therapy, leaving physical and psychological scars. Real change requires not only funding and oversight but also breaking cycles of shame through education, compassion, and community outreach.
