Muhammadiyah Chief Calls for Zero Tolerance on Sexual Violence in Universities

Muhammadiyah Chairman Haedar Nashir has stated that there must be no compromise for perpetrators of sexual violence and harassment within educational environments, following a spate of cases in Yogyakarta. The recent incidents have involved not only state and private universities but also several Muhammadiyah and ’Aisyiyah higher education institutions (PTMA), including Ahmad Dahlan University (UAD), Muhammadiyah University of Yogyakarta (UMY), and ’Aisyiyah University (Unisa) Yogyakarta. “We must not give any space to issues that cause demoralisation and weaken the nation’s potential. This must be the commitment of all educational institutions in Indonesia,” Haedar asserted. He expressed confidence that rectors within the PTMA network are handling each report seriously, but emphasised that the process must not stop at mere administrative measures. Haedar insisted that cases must be dealt with transparently according to legal corridors, campus regulations, and applicable ethical standards. He warned that moral violations in education should not be treated as ordinary matters, highlighting that the education sector faces various challenges, from violence to moral deviance, requiring a strong commitment to creating a safe learning environment. “This is a matter of ethics, morals, and public trust,” he said, adding that every campus must have the courage to take firm action to protect the integrity of the institution and its academic community. He believes all universities already possess regulatory enforcement mechanisms and urged that every suspected violation be processed according to procedure with zero tolerance for offenders. Haedar hopes the recent surge in cases will serve as a momentum for all PTMA to strengthen their systems for preventing and handling sexual violence, ensuring campuses are safe spaces for all.