Key facts
- A 17-year-old girl named Elmi Febrianti drowned after being swept out to sea at the Apparalang tourist site in Bulukumba, Indonesia.
- Witnesses reportedly filmed the incident rather than offering assistance.
- The event has triggered a national conversation in Indonesia about the bystander effect.
The drowning of a 17-year-old girl at a popular Indonesian tourist spot has ignited a national discussion about the bystander effect, after witnesses reportedly filmed her struggle rather than intervening.
Elmi Febrianti was visiting the Apparalang tourist site in Bulukumba regency with her family on Sunday when she was struck by a large wave near a clifftop selfie spot and dragged out to sea. Apparalang is known for its scenic turquoise waters and limestone cliffs.
The incident has led to widespread soul-searching within Indonesia regarding why bystanders did not offer help.