Preventing Sexual Abuse in Islamic Boarding Schools and Educating Victims on Reporting
Alleged cases of sexual abuse involving caretakers at Islamic boarding schools, such as those reported at Ponpes Padang Ati in Pekalongan, add to a long list of dark records of sexual violence in religious educational institutions. The recurrence of such incidents underscores the urgent need for systemic oversight reforms and enhanced education for students, teachers, and parents.
Prevention must be systemic, involving all stakeholders within and outside the boarding schools. Key steps include:
Each boarding school must have clear Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) governing interactions between caretakers/teachers and students. These should prohibit private one-on-one meetings in enclosed spaces, set time limits for interactions, and ensure transparency in teaching activities.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs and relevant agencies must conduct regular audits of operational permits and management track records. Internally, establishing an independent student complaint team not under the direct control of caretakers is crucial for maintaining objectivity.
Students must be educated about their bodily autonomy. This education is not taboo but essential for students to recognise abusive behaviour and confidently say ‘no’ to authority figures misusing their power.
In Islamic boarding schools, reporting barriers are often structural and psychological, including power imbalances, doctrines of absolute obedience, and shame (stigma). To encourage victims to speak out, the following measures must be ensured:
If you or someone you know is a victim of violence in an educational setting, take the following steps:
On Wednesday, 27 May, a group of civil society activists stormed the Padepokan Padang Ati Islamic Boarding School in Buaran, Pekalongan Regency. The group, calling itself Yakuza Mangenes, demanded accountability from the school’s leadership over alleged sexual misconduct against dozens of students. When over 20 members of the organisation arrived, former female students gave testimonies in front of hundreds of current students, urging them to speak out and report incidents. Police immediately detained the school’s leader, KH. Abdul Khalim Fadlun. (Antara/I-1)
Does obedience to teachers mean following all orders?
No. Obedience in religious education does not encompass actions that violate laws, moral norms, or cause physical or mental harm. Students have the right to refuse orders that breach personal boundaries.
What role do parents play in prevention?
Parents must foster open communication with their children. Do not overlook behavioural changes such as becoming withdrawn, fearful of returning to the boarding school, or showing signs of physical trauma.
What if the perpetrator is a highly respected figure?
Indonesian law does not consider social status. Sexual violence is a clear criminal offence. Reporting perpetrators helps preserve the integrity of boarding schools by removing individuals who tarnish religious reputation.