DPR Member Highlights Alleged Neglect in Sexual Violence Case in Pati
The Chairman of Commission VIII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Marwan Dasopang, has highlighted allegations of neglect in the sexual violence case at the Ndholo Kusumo orphanage in Tlogowungu, Pati, Central Java. He is urging that not only the perpetrator but also those suspected of allowing the case to persist be thoroughly investigated.
According to Marwan, the lengthy timeframe of the incidents raises significant questions. Moreover, over those years, it has resulted in numerous victims. He stressed that it is difficult for common sense to accept that the case was not detected from the outset.
“It must be investigated why there was neglect, given the long timeframe of the incidents and the number of victims? Why was it not detected? Why was it not uncovered, leading to so many victims?” Marwan said rhetorically to Republika on Monday (4 May 2026).
He also questioned the possibility of no reports over the years, considering the number of victims reportedly in the dozens. The legislator assessed that such a situation could not occur without information circulating in the surrounding community.
“Neglect within an institution like this warrants questioning. It’s impossible that no one gave a tip-off or report or something like a report,” Marwan stated.
“If it’s been years and the victims number in the dozens, that’s not easy to do. This neglect is actually what needs to be investigated, why it could turn out like this,” continued the National Awakening Party (PKB) politician.
He strongly condemned the actions of the perpetrator and those suspected of covering up the case. Marwan emphasised the importance of firm law enforcement and proportionate punishment.
Nevertheless, Marwan deemed the reference to the incident’s location as a pondok pesantren inappropriate. He stated that the event occurred at an orphanage for orphaned children, not a pesantren.
“This incident seems to have occurred not at a pondok pesantren. So the narrative must be corrected. This happened at a child care institution,” Marwan said.
He also regretted if the case impacted the general image of pesantrens. According to him, not all religious-based educational institutions can be categorised as pondok pesantrens.
“Even if there are classes mentioned, it’s actually not a pesantren. So the narrative is inaccurate. Don’t let harassment be claimed as happening at a pesantren. This is important: the distinction between social institutions and educational institutions must be clearly explained soon, not left ambiguous,” Marwan asserted.
Previously, dozens of female students at a pondok pesantren in Pati Regency were allegedly victimised by a caregiver in a sexual violence case. The case is currently being handled by the Pati Police Resort.
The victims’ legal representative, Ali Yusron, revealed that the report was filed as early as 2024. He stated that the case handling has been protracted despite various evidence, including medical examination results, being submitted to investigators.
Most recently, the Pati Police Resort has designated AS, the caregiver at Ndholo Kusumo, as a suspect in the alleged sexual violence against several female students. The investigation process is ongoing.
“Correct, the perpetrator has been named a suspect,” stated the Head of Public Relations of Pati Police Resort, Ipda Hafid Amin, when confirmed by Republika via short message on Monday (4 May 2026).