From my experience researching cases involving religious educational institutions like pesantrens, incidents of abuse can be particularly distressing due to the trust communities place in spiritual leaders. In this case, the allegation that a kiyai abused dozens of santri reflects a serious breach of trust and calls for increased vigilance and protective measures. Many pesantrens emphasize spiritual healing practices involving mental and physical therapies as part of their rituals, including thorīqah paths for inner healing—as referenced in the content. Unfortunately, these traditional methods have, in some cases, been manipulated to conceal or rationalize abuse, making it critical for authorities and communities to be vigilant. Parents and stakeholders should advocate for transparent oversight and reporting mechanisms within pesantren environments to ensure students’ safety. Awareness programs for santri about their rights and how to report inappropriate behavior can empower victims and prevent further abuse. This tragic case highlights the urgent need for institutional reforms in religious boarding schools, alongside psychological support for victims to aid their recovery. It also shows how cultural and religious contexts interact with child protection issues, demanding sensitive yet firm interventions to uphold safety and justice.