Sexual Violence in Pati Pesantren: DPR Member Urges Public Not to Generalise

PATI – A member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) from Pati, Marwan Jafar, has asked the public not to generalise the case of alleged sexual harassment at Pondok Pesantren (Ponpes) Ndholo Kusumo, Tlogowungu, Pati, Central Java, as a reflection of all pesantren. Nevertheless, he stressed that the perpetrator must be severely punished without compromise.

Marwan strongly condemned the alleged sexual crime committed by the pesantren supervisor against dozens of female students. He urged the police to immediately arrest the perpetrator and process the case legally with maximum sanctions.

“We strongly condemn the sexual crime committed by the pesantren supervisor against dozens of his female students. This crime cannot be tolerated. The perpetrator must be immediately arrested and given firm sanctions without mercy,” Marwan said in a written statement received on Tuesday (5/5/2026).

According to him, the case not only causes unrest in society but also tarnishes the honour of pesantren as an educational institution based on moral and religious values. He regretted the perpetrator’s behaviour, which came from someone who should be a role model.

“This is a betrayal of trust, religious values, and humanity. The perpetrator’s actions have stained the religious values taught in pesantren. There must be no tolerance at all,” he stated.

Marwan also emphasised the importance of a transparent legal process that is not covered up. He asked law enforcement officials to resolve the case professionally in accordance with the provisions of the Sexual Violence Crime Act.

In addition, he highlighted the importance of protection and recovery for the victims. According to him, the trauma from sexual violence can last long and affect the victims’ psychological condition.

“The victims must receive comprehensive assistance, both psychological, medical, and legal, so they can return to normal life and continue their education,” he said.