Presenter Ruben Onsu has directed his legal team to file for sole child custody amid his ongoing divorce proceedings with Sarwendah. According to his attorney, Minola Sebayang, the move follows public allegations of verbal abuse and manipulation made by the couple’s eldest son, Betrand Peto, on social media. The legal action aims to protect the children’s psychological well-being from environments Onsu’s team describes as non-conducive to their development.
Why is Ruben Onsu seeking sole custody?
Ruben Onsu is pursuing full custody due to concerns over the children’s safety and psychological environment. Minola Sebayang stated that Onsu decided to take legal action after Betrand Peto, known as Onyo, shared claims on social media regarding “unpleasant treatment” and “provocation” within his current living situation. According to Sebayang, these posts alleged instances of verbal abuse and intimidation that necessitate judicial intervention to ensure the children’s stability.

In Indonesian family law, courts prioritize the “best interests of the child” when determining custody arrangements, often weighing the psychological impact of the separation on minors.
What is the legal strategy behind the filing?
The legal strategy focuses on securing the children’s testimony and protecting them from external influence. Sebayang indicated that the defense team suspects efforts are being made to isolate the children from Onsu to prevent him from learning about events that occurred during the separation. By filing for custody, the legal team intends to create a secure environment where the children can speak freely about their experiences without fear of reprisal or further manipulation.
How does this impact the ongoing divorce process?
The custody battle introduces a new layer of complexity to the divorce, which had previously been focused on the dissolution of the marriage. Sebayang confirmed that legal staff are currently compiling evidence, including written statements from Betrand Peto, to support the claim that the children’s current environment is detrimental. Once this documentation is finalized, the team plans to submit the formal request to the court, potentially as early as next week.
Comparison: Standard Custody vs. Emergency Intervention
| Factor | Standard Custody | Onsu’s Current Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Mutual agreement or court mediation | Allegations of psychological distress |
| Urgency | Standard timeline | High; predicated on child safety |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Has the custody lawsuit been officially filed yet? No, Minola Sebayang stated that the legal team is currently finalizing the necessary documents and evidence before submission.
- What specific evidence is being used? The team is utilizing social media disclosures from Betrand Peto regarding alleged verbal abuse and external provocation.
- Why is Ruben Onsu acting now? According to his attorney, the decision was prompted by the need to prevent further influence or “hasutan” (incitement) that could alienate the children from their father.
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