Minister of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (PPPA) Arifah Fauzi expressed deep concern over the alleged violence and sexual harassment against a woman identified as TU while praying at Masjid Al-Ikhlas in Bandar Lampung. The incident highlights the vulnerability of public spaces like places of worship to gender-based violence. The government is committed to providing protection and justice for the victim.
On November 5, 2025, a woman identified as TU (22 years old) suffered physical violence and harassment by TH (23 years old) while praying at Masjid Al-Ikhlas in Bandar Lampung City. The perpetrator hit the victim, causing injuries and bruises on several parts of her body. Local residents who heard the victim's screams quickly assisted and handed the perpetrator over to the Teluk Betung Selatan Police Sector.
Minister PPPA Arifah Fauzi strongly condemned the incident, stating that violence against women in places of worship is intolerable. "We are very concerned and regret the occurrence of violence against women, especially in places of worship, which cannot be tolerated. The state must be present to ensure victims receive protection, justice, and recovery," she said in a statement on November 6, 2025.
The Ministry of PPPA, through the SAPA 129 service, coordinated with the Lampung Provincial PPA UPTD and police to provide initial counseling, psychological strengthening, and legal education to the victim's family. The victim has undergone a medical examination at Bhayangkara Hospital and is undergoing psychological recovery, with further examinations scheduled for November 6, 2025.
Arifah appreciated the quick response from authorities and the community. "The swift actions of the apparatus and society demonstrate collective concern in protecting women from violence. The Ministry of PPPA ensures ongoing support for the victim and monitoring of the legal process so that the perpetrator is punished according to the provisions," she added.
This incident is part of a series of negative news in mosques, including the assault and murder of a student in North Sumatra. Chairman of MUI's Dakwah and Ukhuwah Division KH Cholil Nafis expressed concern over this phenomenon and urged the revitalization of mosques through a spiritual and community empowerment movement. Strategies include strengthening professional management, synergy with zakat institutions and local governments, capacity building for takmir, digitalization of da'wah, and social impact evaluation.
The Ministry of PPPA also promotes violence prevention through public education and oversight of public spaces, including places of worship, and encourages reporting via SAPA 129.