PBNU Calls for Stronger Protection for Sexual Violence Victims

DOZENS of female students at a pesantren in Pekalongan Regency have become victims of sexual violence. In response, PBNU Chairman Alissa Wahid strongly condemned the incident and called for law enforcement to thoroughly investigate the perpetrators.

‘We strongly condemn this act of sexual violence and support law enforcement in pursuing the case to completion as a form of justice for the victims,’ Alissa told Media Indonesia on Wednesday (27 May).

She emphasised that prioritising victim support is crucial in handling sexual violence cases, including providing protection and psychosocial recovery assistance.

Alissa stressed that cases involving community or religious figures must be dealt with more strictly in accordance with the law, warning that restorative justice should not favour the perpetrators.

‘In cases of sexual violence committed by community or religious figures, stricter action is required under the law. Restorative justice must not side with the perpetrators,’ she said.

She noted the prevalence of sexual violence in pesantren environments serves as a warning for the entire religious education ecosystem to strengthen child and santri protection systems.

To prevent recurrence, Alissa said PBNU has established the Violence Mitigation Task Force (SAKA) to handle cases and preventive measures.

She explained that efforts begin with raising awareness across educational institutions, including pesantren, to actively maintain safe environments for children and santri.

‘Most kyai and nyai are deeply concerned about these cases as their impact extends to other kyai, nyai and pesantren. It is crucial for santri, their guardians, management, and all stakeholders to work together to safeguard themselves and their communities,’ Alissa added.

She also stated that from June onwards, PBNU’s SAKA, in collaboration with several pesantren, will implement the Safe Pesantren for Children movement to prevent violence within pesantren environments.