Children Experiencing Sexual Deviance: Aisyiyah's Message to Parents

The Chairperson of the Central Leadership of ’Aisyiyah, Salmah Orbayinah, has reminded parents not to judge or distance themselves from children involved in deviant behaviour. According to her, the family should instead serve as the safest place for a child when facing problems.

This statement was made by Salmah in response to a recent case involving a pair of male students suspected of engaging in inappropriate conduct on a university campus, which has drawn significant public scrutiny. In that particular case, the father of one of the students even issued a public apology before other students.

“If one of our children behaves deviantly, do not scold, avoid, or shout at them. In any case, they are still our children who must be given attention and guidance,” Salmah stated when contacted by Republika.co.id on Thursday (4/6/2026).

She acknowledged that parents often face social pressure when their children become the subject of public scrutiny. However, she believes this burden should be handled wisely and not taken out on the child.

“If we subsequently scold the child, forbid them from leaving the house, or isolate them, the problem will only become more severe,” she added.