"There are many fake, illegitimate pesantrens, and most of them are operating in West Java. I will soon carry out raids on them," he remarked after attending the International Conference on the Transformation of Pesantren in Jakarta on Tuesday (June 24) night.
Iskandar explained that his initiative is in response to an increase in reports about unregistered and abusive pesantrens, an alarming trend that has tarnished the image of 39 thousand such schools across the country.
He affirmed that the special team would focus on taking firm action against pesantrens engaged in exploitative practices.
"My team and I will carry out raids to create a deterrent effect, stressing the need to take action against inappropriate practices," he emphasized while highlighting that he wields the authority to take legal enforcement measures on such schools.
The minister also expressed hope that all relevant stakeholders would contribute to this effort by helping to prevent and curb the emergence of illegal pesantrens in Indonesia.
"I hope the Ministry of Religious Affairs and regional governments will exert their utmost efforts to register, review, and identify fake pesantrens that exploit poverty for personal gain," he stated.
Furthermore, he called on legitimate pesantrens to help ensure they can prevent misconduct within their institutions.
"It is crucial for pesantrens to prevent bullying, sexual violence, and intolerance—three sins that appear to be on the rise in society," he emphasized.
Translator: Rio F, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
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