Ahmad Zuhdi, a teacher at Madrasah Diniyah Roudhotul Mualimin in Demak, Central Java, has received widespread support after being fined Rp 25 million for slapping one of his students.
Support for Ahmad Zuhdi has now gone viral on social media. Hundreds of people and dozens of religious teachers from various regions across the country have united to stand by Zuhdi, who they believe has been treated unfairly.
According to an Instagram post, hundreds gathered in solidarity with Ahmad Zuhdi, who was ordered to pay Rp 25 million despite earning only around Rp 110,000 per month as a religious teacher.
Ahmad Zuhdi has not only received moral support but also financial donations and a motorcycle. The motorcycle was given after he was forced to sell his own to pay the fine demanded by the student’s parents.
Netizens are outraged by the parents’ decision to demand such a large sum from Ahmad Zuhdi, especially since the punishment was a response to the student’s misconduct.
“If a student was slapped, there must have been a reason. A teacher wouldn’t do that unless they were extremely frustrated,” commented one netizen.
“Mark those parents. Warn all schools not to accept their child. Let them teach their kid at home,” replied another.
“A failed legislative candidate from Demak Regency’s Regional Council demanded Rp 25 million in compensation from a Madrasah Diniyah teacher in Ngampel, Jatirejo, Karanganyar District, Demak Regency, alleging the teacher slapped their child.”
Another netizen commented that this is part of God’s plan to elevate Ahmad Zuhdi’s status due to his sincerity in teaching.
“How beautiful is God’s plan when He elevates His servant,” one user wrote.
“God has many ways to raise the status of His servants. What may seem like a calamity is actually His way of lifting them higher,” added another.
Madrasah Diniyah Roudhotul Mualimin
Madrasah Diniyah Roudhotul Mualimin is an Islamic educational institution in Indonesia that focuses on religious studies (diniyah) alongside general education. While specific historical details may vary, such madrasahs traditionally emphasize Quranic studies, Islamic jurisprudence, and Arabic language, reflecting Indonesia’s long-standing tradition of integrating religious and secular learning. These schools often serve local communities, preserving Islamic teachings while adapting to modern educational needs.
Demak
Demak is a historic town in Central Java, Indonesia, known as the first Islamic sultanate on the island, established in the late 15th century. It is home to the iconic **Great Mosque of Demak**, one of the oldest mosques in Java, traditionally believed to have been built by the Wali Songo (Nine Saints) who spread Islam in the region. The town holds significant cultural and religious importance as a center of early Islamic influence in Indonesia.
Central Java
Central Java, a province in Indonesia, is a region rich in cultural heritage and history, known as the heart of Javanese tradition. It is home to iconic historical sites like Borobudur and Prambanan, ancient temples dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries, which reflect the region’s Buddhist and Hindu influences. The area also played a significant role in Indonesia’s independence movement and remains a center of Javanese arts, such as batik, gamelan music, and wayang (shadow puppetry).
Ngampel
Ngampel is a historic area in Surabaya, East Java, Indonesia, known for its cultural and religious significance. It is home to the Sunan Ngampel Mosque, which was established in the 15th century by Sunan Ngampel (also known as Sunan Ampel), one of the revered Wali Songo (Nine Saints) who spread Islam in Java. The area remains an important Islamic center and a pilgrimage site, reflecting Java’s rich Islamic heritage.
Jatirejo
Jatirejo is a village located in East Java, Indonesia, known for its cultural heritage and traditional Javanese charm. Historically, it has been an agricultural community, with many residents engaged in farming and local crafts. The village also holds cultural significance, often hosting traditional events such as *wayang kulit* (shadow puppet) performances and *selamatan* (community feasts) that reflect Javanese customs.
Karanganyar District
Karanganyar District is a regency in Central Java, Indonesia, known for its scenic landscapes, including Mount Lawu and popular tea plantations. Historically, it was part of the Surakarta Sunanate (Solo Kingdom) and retains cultural ties to Javanese traditions. The area also features historical sites like the 15th-century Cetho Temple, a Hindu temple reflecting Java’s pre-Islamic heritage.
Demak Regency
Demak Regency, located in Central Java, Indonesia, is historically significant as the site of the Demak Sultanate, the first Islamic sultanate in Java (established in the late 15th century). It is home to the iconic **Great Mosque of Demak**, one of the oldest mosques in Indonesia, built in 1479 and traditionally associated with the Wali Songo (Nine Saints of Islam). Today, Demak remains an important cultural and religious center, blending Islamic heritage with Javanese traditions.
Regional Council
The **Regional Council** is a local governing body found in many countries, responsible for administrative, economic, and developmental decisions within a specific region. Its history varies by location but often stems from decentralization reforms aimed at improving local governance and public services. These councils typically consist of elected representatives who manage regional policies, infrastructure, and community initiatives.