Legislator: Female Islamic Boarding School Students Who Are Victims of Molestation Must Receive Full Support

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com - Member of the House of Representatives Commission VIII Dini Rahmania stated that the santriwati in Pati who are victims of molestation must receive full support from the state.

“Children who become victims of sexual violence must receive full protection and support,” Dini told Kompas.com on Wednesday (6/5/2026).

“Do not let the children face the trauma alone,” she said.

The NasDem Party politician reminded that children should not lose their right to education or drop out of school because of this case.

“The Ministry of Religious Affairs must immediately prepare clear solutions for the affected santri, including schemes for transfer to other safe pesantren that still ensure their learning process continues,” she stated.

According to her, pesantren are places where parents entrust their children to learn religion and build character.

Therefore, she requested that the security and protection of santri must truly become a joint concern.

The case of sexual violence and molestation involving a kiai at a pesantren in the Pati area has been investigated by the police.

The victim’s legal adviser, Ali Yusron, mentioned that the number of victims could reach 30 to 50 santriwati.

He revealed that the majority of the victims come from vulnerable backgrounds, from orphans to poor families.

“This is like the tip of the iceberg. One victim who dares to speak out can uncover dozens of others,” said Ali Yusron.

For his actions, the suspect is charged under Article 76 letter E in conjunction with Article 82 of the Child Protection Law, with a minimum penalty of 5 years and a maximum of 15 years imprisonment.

Alternatively, Article 6 letter C in conjunction with Article 15 paragraph (1) letter E of Law Number 12 of 2022 on Criminal Acts of Sexual Violence (TPKS), with a maximum penalty of 12 years imprisonment.