Central Java Ministry of Religious Affairs Considers Closing Ma'had Al Anfas Padepokan Following Sexual Abuse Allegations
The alleged sexual violence committed by MT, the founder and caretaker of Padepokan Ma’had Al Anfas in Rejosari Village, Karangawul District, Demak Regency, has triggered a severe reaction. The Regional Office (Kanwil) of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) in Central Java is now considering the closure of the institution, which is suspected of operating under the guise of an Islamic boarding school.
Based on monitoring on Monday (8/6/2026), allegations of sexual violence against several female students have come to light following admissions from two former students, identified by the initials R and S. The case has incited anger among local residents, particularly as the legal process currently underway at the Demak Police Station is perceived to be progressing slowly.
Moch Fatkhuronji, Head of the Division of Diniyah Education and Islamic Boarding Schools at the Central Java Ministry of Religious Affairs, revealed that based on current contextual analysis, Padepokan Ma’had Al Anfas does not possess an official operational permit. This serves as a strong basis for the Ministry to consider the permanent closure of the institution.
“The case was reported by victim R in September 2025 and by victim S in early June 2026, but the investigation appears to be stalled,” said Cak Ulil, a representative of the Pati Students Alliance for Democracy (Aspirasi).
In response to the planned closure, Moch Fatkhuronji stated that his office has coordinated with the Demak Regency Government. This step is being taken to ensure the welfare of the 30 students still actively studying there, consisting of 12 female and 18 male students. Beyond the legal aspects, the Ministry’s primary focus is to ensure students can continue their education in a safe environment. “Similar to the students at Pondok Pesantren Ndholo Kusumo Pati and Padepokan Padang Ati Pekalongan, we are preparing new learning centres for these students,” added Fatkhuronji.
The rise in sexual violence within religious educational environments has drawn serious attention from the Governor of Central Java, Ahmad Luthfi. He has called upon all religious leaders, scholars, and stakeholders to synergise in a massive prevention movement.
“Leaders, religious scholars, and other stakeholders must work together to implement prevention so that these heartbreaking events do not recur,” Ahmad Luthfi asserted on Monday (8/6).
The Governor emphasised the importance of active community oversight. While the local government only possesses the authority to issue advisories, he believes the Ministry of Religious Affairs, as the authorised authority, is capable of thoroughly addressing issues regarding licensing and the supervision of religious educational institutions.
To date, the community and the victims’ families are urging law enforcement at the Demak Police Station to expedite the resolution of this case to ensure justice for the victims and the safety of educational environments within Central Java.