PRIME NEWS POST 

The INDONESIAN, (PIDIE) — Allegations of sexual harassment against a number of students at the Islamic Educational Foundation (LPI) Yayasan Jabal Ulum in Muara Tiga Subdistrict, Pidie Regency, demand immediate action by law enforcement authorities.

Rifqi Maulana, Head of the Legal, Advocacy & Public Policy Division, called on police to conduct a comprehensive, thorough investigation — including identifying potential additional victims and anyone alleged to have known about or facilitated the abuses.

“Law enforcement authorities must act immediately. Investigate thoroughly based on evidence and legal provisions. There must be no attempt to settle a criminal matter outside legal channels,” Rifqi stated.

According to information Rifqi received from the community and parents of one victim, the alleged acts reportedly occurred repeatedly and involved students. Initial reports cite approximately 13 victims, while other accounts suggest the number could reach 15.

“The official number of victims must be established by the authorities. Many victims remain afraid to speak up. Investigate the foundation, victims, witnesses, and all evidence professionally,” he said.

The Keuchik (Village Head) of Tgk Laweung, Idris, reportedly confirmed awareness of the issue. However, the substance of the alleged criminal acts must still be proven through formal investigation and inquiry.

Rifqi insisted the case be treated strictly as a legal matter to be handled by competent authorities.

“This is not a matter for public vigilante action. Do not let new conflicts emerge. Leave this to law enforcement,” he said.

He added that should investigators uncover others who aided, abetted, concealed, or otherwise participated in the offenses, their involvement must be examined based on evidence and their respective roles.

“Anyone proven to have assisted or participated must face legal process. No one may be shielded simply because of their position or connections,” Rifqi affirmed.

He emphasized that proceedings must not end with legal action against the alleged perpetrators alone — the State must also ensure victims receive protection and rehabilitation.

“The State must step forward. Victims need protection, support, and rehabilitation. It cannot be that once the legal process begins, victims are left to face the psychological and social aftermath entirely on their own,” he stated.

He called on local government, the Education Office, child protection agencies, mental health professionals, and related bodies to ensure victims receive appropriate support.

“Schools and educational institutions must be safe spaces for children. Where sexual violence is alleged, government must ensure student safety and conduct a full institutional review,” he said.

Rifqi also urged authorities to evaluate educational governance at Yayasan Jabal Ulum amid concerns over supervision and student protection.

Official Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education records list SMP Jabal Ulum as a private educational institution located at Jalan Guha Tujoeh-Laweung, Gampong Tgk. Dilaweueng, Muara Tiga Subdistrict, Pidie Regency. Yayasan Jabal Ulum Teungku Chiek in Laweueng is recorded as the institution’s founding body.

Rifqi cautioned that institutional concerns must not be used to obstruct legal proceedings.

“If there are governance failures, government must act within its authority. Above all else, student safety is paramount,” he said.

He also called on the Education Office to investigate potential irregularities in educational funding, including School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds.

Such reviews must be based on documentation and financial records, not speculation.

“Every allocation — including BOS funds — must be clearly accounted for: what it was used for, who benefited, and whether expenditure complied with regulations. Where misuse is suspected, investigations must be open and professional,” he stated.

He directed the Education Office and oversight bodies to examine administration, budget use, facilities, and student protection systems — while keeping sexual abuse allegations distinct from administrative or financial matters.

“Each issue must be investigated through its proper process. Where violations are found, action must follow the law,” he said.

Rifqi also urged authorities to address matters relating to waqf (endowment) land, building rehabilitation, and asset use — where relevant — through competent agencies and based on ownership documents and designated purposes.

“Waqf land and educational assets must be used as intended. Where misuse is alleged, review the records and resolve through legal process,” he said.

He reminded the public not to share identities, photos, videos, or any information that could reveal victims — especially those who are minors.

“Victims must not be victimized twice by exposure. We must protect them,” he said.

Rifqi called on authorities to respond promptly to public reports.

“Our request is straightforward: law enforcement must respond, conduct a professional investigation, pursue the case to its conclusion, and — where sufficient evidence exists — prosecute those responsible. The State must also stand with victims to protect and rehabilitate them,” he stated.

He urged the public to refrain from taking matters into their own hands.

“Let the proper authorities do their work. The public monitors the process — it does not become judge and jury,” Rifqi concluded.

Reported from various media sources //photo from Google documents // contribution by Prime News Post international online media // news.paper