Combating Sexual Violence, Neng Eem: Pesantren Must Become a Moral Fortress

She assessed that this prompt handling represents a tangible manifestation of the state’s presence in protecting the rights of the nation’s future generations. “I appreciate the swift and firm steps taken by Kemenag in responding to this case. Protection of santri must be the top priority, and there should be no tolerance for any form of violation in educational environments,” Neng Eem stated firmly in her remarks on Friday (8/5/2026). Previously, Kemenag had taken two concrete steps deemed on target. First, relocating 252 santri to six nearby educational institutions in Pati Regency, including MI Khoiriyatul Ulum Sitiluhur, MI Matholiun Najah Tlogosari, SMP Al-Akrom Banyuurip, MA Al-Akrom Banyuurip, MA Assalafiyah Lahar, and MA Khoiriyatul Ulum Trangkil, Pati Regency. Second, revoking the operational permit of the Ndolo Kusumo educational institution. In addition to santri, educators and educational staff were also relocated to madrasah or schools under Kemenag and the Pati Regency Education Office. This step was taken to ensure the continuity of the teaching and learning process without disruption. As Chair of the Legal Advocacy and Public Policy Division of PP Fatayat NU, Neng Eem emphasised three matters that must be immediately followed up by all parties. First, strengthening the supervisory system for all religious-based educational institutions, including pondok pesantren, to prevent similar cases from recurring. Second, a transparent and just legal process, accompanied by psychological support and full protection for every victim. Third, the need for synergy between the government, society, and pesantren managers to create a safe, comfortable, and violence-free learning environment. Neng Eem affirmed that the perpetrator’s affiliates do not represent pesantren. “Pondok Pesantren are a great national asset born long before independence and must remain a moral fortress as well as a pillar of character education. Deviant individuals are truly not a product of pesantren,” she stated firmly. Moving forward, Neng Eem hopes that all elements of religious education such as pesantren can increase vigilance. She also encourages all elements to remind each other of early signs of sexual violence so that similar tragedies do not recur.