MUI Condemns Sexual Violence Cases in Islamic Boarding Schools, Demands Strict Punishment for Perpetrators

Regarding dozens of female students at a padepokan in Pekalongan Regency becoming victims of sexual abuse, Chairman of the MUI’s Pesantren Board, Ahmad Fahrur Rozi or Gus Fahrur, stated that sexual violence cases in pesantren are currently serious and alarming.

‘Cases of sexual violence against santriwati are deeply concerning and must serve as a serious warning for all educational institutions, including pesantren. Perpetrators must be prosecuted strictly to ensure justice for victims and act as a deterrent,’ he told Media Indonesia on Wednesday (27/5).

He further urged systematic prevention measures, including stricter supervision, establishing safe reporting mechanisms for students, rigorous screening and mentoring of caretakers and educators, and education on child protection and sexual violence.

He added that pesantren should be places for building character and preserving human dignity. ‘Therefore, the public must be selective in choosing kyais and pesantren. Ensure the caretakers’ track records, educational systems, and commitment to creating safe, healthy environments free from all forms of violence,’ Gus Fahrur stressed. (Des/P-3)

Central Lombok Police have named teacher MYA as a suspect for molesting four students. The case emerged after victims contracted sexually transmitted infections.

UI Criminology Expert Josias Simon highlighted recurring patterns of sexual violence in pesantren due to closed environments and weak oversight.

Kuswandi, an accomplice in the Ponpes Ndholo Kusumo Pati student molestation case, was arrested in Bekasi. He denied involvement in the suspect A’s escape.

Central Java Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen pledged to oversee the thorough handling of sexual violence cases involving a pesantren caretaker identified as AS in Pati.

Transparency in handling remains questionable, as information provided is procedural without concrete achievement indicators.

He stated academic suspension would remain in effect until the UI Task Force for Prevention and Handling of Violence (Satgas PPK) completes its investigation.

Toba Regency Secretary Augus Sitorus acknowledged that every service provided by the Social Affairs Department has some shortcomings.