Unpad Professor Allegedly Harasses Foreign Student, DPR's Commission X Pushes for Firm Sanctions
A viral case involving an alleged sexual harassment by a professor at Universitas Padjadjaran (Unpad) against a foreign student in an exchange programme has drawn sharp criticism from DPR’s Commission X, which deems the act intolerable.
“It is certainly very concerning and cannot be tolerated,” stated Chair of Commission X DPR, Hetifah Sjaifudian, to reporters on Friday (16/4/2026).
According to her, the university environment should serve as a safe, inclusive space that upholds academic ethics and the dignity of every individual, including foreign students pursuing exchange programmes.
“We emphasise that any allegations of such violations must be handled seriously, transparently, and fairly, prioritising protection for the victim,” Hetifah said.
Hetifah urged the campus authorities to ensure that mechanisms for addressing sexual violence operate in accordance with applicable regulations, particularly Permendikbudristek Number 55 of 2024, which outlines universities’ obligations to prevent and handle various forms of violence, including providing adequate support to victims.
“Regarding sanctions, we push for firm and proportionate action against the perpetrator if proven guilty, to create a deterrent effect and serve as a warning to the entire academic community that such behaviour will not be tolerated in the world of education,” she continued.
In response to the case, Unpad has conducted an initial investigation. Unpad Rector Arief Sjamsulaksan stated that the lecturer allegedly involved has been temporarily suspended from all academic activities.
“Upon receiving the complete report, on the same day Unpad immediately took firm steps by temporarily suspending the lecturer in question from all academic activities,” he said.
Subsequently, Unpad is following the handling procedures in accordance with applicable rules, including forming an investigation team. This process involves Unpad’s Task Force for the Prevention and Handling of Sexual Violence (Satgas PPKS) as well as faculty senate representatives to ensure the investigation is objective and comprehensive.
In his statement, Arief emphasised that if a violation is proven, the campus will impose sanctions in line with statutory provisions.
“Unpad will consistently carry out the process of proving and addressing violence in accordance with the law, and prioritise the interests and safety of the affected party. This applies to all Unpad community members, including lecturers, students, and educational staff,” he clarified.