West Java official stresses need for government support for Islamic boarding schools

Sidkon Djampi, a member of the West Java Provincial DPRD from the National Awakening Party (PKB) faction, stressed the vital importance of government support for Islamic boarding schools, known as pesantren. He highlighted their significant role in shaping human resources, strengthening religious outreach, and empowering communities.

Djampi pointed to the implementation of Regional Regulation Number 1 of 2021 concerning the Facilitation of Pesantren Operations as a key way to manifest this support. He stated that this regulation demonstrates the regional government's commitment to pesantren, which have been integral to Indonesia's history, existing long before the nation's independence. "The state must be present through policies that provide facilitation to pesantren," Djampi told Republika.

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Pesantren has been present long before Indonesia's independence. Its role is not only as a religious education institution, but also as a center for preaching, character building, and community empowerment. Therefore, the state must be present through policies that provide facilitation to pesantren.

West Java is home to over 11,000 pesantren with approximately one million students. Djampi noted that the implementation of the Pesantren Regulation is a strategic step to enhance their contribution to regional development. He also expressed concern over the temporary suspension of grant funds for pesantren by the West Java Provincial Government for evaluation purposes. While acknowledging the need for evaluation to ensure funds are used effectively, Djampi urged for a swift process, stating that prolonged delays could negatively impact smaller pesantren struggling with limited facilities for dormitories and classrooms.

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If some are not right on target, evaluate and fix the mechanism. Don't let the aid be stopped for too long. Many small pesantren still need support to improve student dormitories, study rooms, or other facilities.