In a story marked by courage and resilience, two former students from an Islamic boarding school in Indonesia have navigated a harrowing journey of seeking justice against their abusive head teacher. Their pursuit not only brought a dark secret to light but also led to an unexpected bond between them.
Uncovering the Truth
Yusron Azzahidi was taken aback when he received a phone call from his former head teacher, Ahmad Imanuddin Sumar, known as “Abah,” who was at his family home. Abah, revered as a father figure, was a respected leader at an Islamic boarding school on Lombok island. However, he had discovered Yusron and his friends were gathering testimonies from students who accused him of sexual assault.
Sexual abuse in these schools has been labeled a national emergency in Indonesia, yet many cases go unreported due to pressure on victims to remain silent. Abah’s call was an attempt to suppress the allegations, pleading with Yusron to “cover the shame of your teacher.” Unbeknownst to Abah, Yusron was recording their conversation.
Uniting for Justice
The truth began to unravel a year earlier when Ziadatur Rahmah, a former classmate of Yusron, confided in him about an assault she endured at the hands of Abah. This revelation spurred Yusron, Zia, and their friends to collect evidence from other victims. Their efforts revealed a pattern of abuse, with several students sharing similar harrowing experiences.
Despite initial support from the Nahdlatul Wathan Diniyah Islamiyah (NWDI), the organization running the school, the group’s efforts were thwarted when Abah exerted pressure on the victims to recant their statements. This included coercing Sukma Rohana, another victim, to sign a document declaring her allegations false.
Finding Strength Together
Amidst the turmoil, Yusron and Zia’s friendship blossomed into a romantic relationship. The shared experience of seeking justice forged a deep connection between them. Their determination to hold Abah accountable was reignited by the efforts of Ayu Masruroh, an advocate for victims of abuse in Islamic schools.
Encouraged by Ayu, Zia reached out to other potential victims, uncovering more instances of abuse by Abah. This revelation strengthened their resolve to continue their fight for justice, despite the personal cost.
A New Beginning
With the support of their lawyer, Joko Jumadi, who praised their bravery and meticulous documentation, the case against Abah was brought to the police. Although the legal process is ongoing, the journey has already transformed the lives of Yusron and Zia.
Last February, Yusron moved to Cairo to be with Zia, a testament to their enduring bond. Their shared pursuit of justice laid the foundation for their relationship, culminating in their marriage last month. Their story is a testament to the power of courage, love, and the relentless pursuit of truth.
