Learning at MAN 3 Padang Returns to Normal After Bomb Scare, Ministry Ensures Student Support

The Regional Office of the Ministry of Religious Affairs in West Sumatra has confirmed that learning activities at Madrasah Aliyah Negeri (MAN) 3 Padang are back to normal and conducive after a recent explosion. This assurance was given after the Head of the Regional Office, Mustafa, along with the Head of Madrasah Education, Tangusli, and their team conducted a direct inspection of the school. Mustafa stated that the inspection was carried out immediately after receiving information about the incident, and the monitoring results showed that all school activities were proceeding well and the situation was under control. “We went directly to the location to ensure the condition of the madrasah. Alhamdulillah, the situation is conducive and activities at the madrasah are running as they should,” Mustafa said. He explained that the ‘Mata Muda’ event taking place at MAN 3 Padang continued as scheduled, with no visible panic or disruption to the overall learning process. The handling of the incident has been fully handed over to the West Sumatra Regional Police. The Ministry of Religious Affairs respects the ongoing investigation and continues to coordinate with the Padang City Ministry of Religious Affairs office, the madrasah, and other relevant parties. “We fully entrust the handling process to the police. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Religious Affairs is focused on ensuring that educational services continue to run and that the madrasah community receives the necessary support,” he said. Based on field monitoring, the office has not found any indication of students experiencing trauma due to the event. However, the madrasah has prepared support measures should any students require further attention. This support is being provided gradually through the head of the madrasah, teachers, homeroom teachers, and guidance counsellors. Students will also be given reinforcement to remain calm, not be easily influenced by unverified information, and continue their learning activities as usual. If any students are found to need psychosocial support, the Regional Office will coordinate with professional personnel, including psychologists and relevant parties, to provide trauma healing services. Mustafa emphasised that teaching and learning at MAN 3 Padang will continue as normal. To help rebuild a sense of safety and comfort, the following day’s activities will begin with group exercise, outbound activities, and guidance from the Koto Tangah Police. He stated that this step is not just about returning to routine but also about rebuilding students’ confidence to carry out activities normally within the madrasah environment. “We want to ensure all students feel safe and comfortable at the madrasah. The most important thing now is to restore a conducive learning atmosphere through support, guidance, and good communication between the madrasah, parents, and the authorities,” Mustafa said. The Regional Office also urged the public to remain calm and be wise in receiving information, advising against trusting or spreading unverified news. The office is giving law enforcement the space to complete their investigation according to regulations. “We hope all parties can work together to maintain a conducive atmosphere. Let us support the madrasah so it remains a safe, comfortable place for students to learn and develop,” Mustafa concluded.