DPR Leader: Indonesia Faces Sexual Violence Emergency in Educational Environments

Jakarta - Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal, stated that Indonesia is currently facing an emergency situation of sexual violence in educational environments. This was expressed by Cucun following a series of harassment and molestation cases occurring in schools, universities, and Islamic boarding schools (pesantren). “This must be addressed seriously. The emergency of sexual violence in educational environments, including in pesantren, must be dealt with firmly,” said Cucun Ahmad Syamsurijal in his official statement on Thursday (7/5/2026). “We will discuss this to find solutions for the emergency of sexual violence in pesantren institutions and general educational institutions,” Cucun added. According to Cucun, the various sexual violence cases that have recently come to light demonstrate the need for systematic and measured handling steps from the state. He cited the case of alleged dozens of molestations of female students (santriwati) at Pondok Pesantren Ndolo Kusumo, Tlogowungu Subdistrict, Pati, Central Java. In that case, a pesantren caregiver has been named as a suspect. Additionally, there is the alleged sexual violence case at a pesantren in Ciawi, West Java. The suspected perpetrator is a teacher and alumnus who allegedly molested at least 17 male students (santri laki-laki). “Given the number of sexual violence cases in educational environments, there must be early warning or preventive actions,” said Cucun. The DPR leader emphasised that the upcoming discussions will not only cover criminal aspects but also target the governance of educational institutions, particularly pesantren. According to him, pesantren have unique characteristics, such as strong relationships between caregivers and students, closed dormitory environments, and high moral authority.