The building collapsed on Monday during congregational prayer, killing three students and injuring dozens of others.
"The government must ensure the students can carry out learning and worship activities in a safe and proper place. Protection for students must be the top priority," she said here on Tuesday.
The Search and Rescue (SAR) Team earlier reported that 102 people have been evacuated. However, it is estimated that around 38 students are still trapped in the rubble of the building.
As of Tuesday morning, data shows that 91 victims were still undergoing treatment at Sidoarjo Regional Public Hospital, Siti Hajar Islamic Hospital, and Delta Surya Hospital.
The House speaker expressed appreciation for the SAR team and all volunteers participating in the response measures.
This incident, she said, must be a reminder for the government of the importance of overseeing the quality of school buildings, emphasizing that the state must ensure proper construction of public facilities, especially for children.
"Islamic boarding schools accommodate millions of students across Indonesia. Their facilities must be safe and protected from disaster risks," Maharani remarked.
Furthermore, she encouraged the central and regional governments to provide assistance to the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School, including psychological support for the students and the victims' families.
In addition, she demanded that an audit of the school's buildings be conducted.
Apart from emergency handling, she also underscored the importance of long-term effort, namely, strengthening the regulation and supervision of the building construction process at Islamic boarding schools.
Related news: East Java: Search continues for 38 missing after school collapse
Related news: Police investigate MBG food poisoning cases in schools
Related news: Indonesia's VP inspects People's School, spotlights student welfare
Translator: Aria Ananda, Raka Adji
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
