Gus Elham Yahya Luqman, a young preacher from Kediri, East Java, went viral on social media in early November 2025 after an old video resurfaced showing him kissing a child on stage during a religious gathering. The act sparked a wave of public criticism, with many deeming the gesture inappropriate and potentially violating legal and social norms. Across various social media platforms, netizens expressed concern over child grooming and questioned Gus Elham’s ethical conduct as a preacher.

Gus Elham issued a public apology on 11 November 2025 and repeated his apology on 12 November with a visibly somber demeanor, acknowledging his mistake and promising not to repeat it. Despite this, calls for legal action from the public and institutions remained strong.

Social Media Data Overview (Socindex Monitoring)

Based on monitoring conducted using Socindex across Twitter/X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, discussions surrounding the case reached a substantial volume—approximately 68,791 conversations. The monitoring period ran from 1 to 19 November 2025 using keywords such as “Gus Elham,” “Gus Ilham,” #GusElham, and #GusIlham.

The topic also generated a massive audience reach of 345,878,574 with 172,531,099 total engagements. This data clearly shows that discussions related to Gus Elham became one of the most extensively debated topics of the month.

Case Background

The resurfaced video shows Gus Elham carrying and kissing young girls in a manner perceived as excessive, particularly because it occurred publicly and in the presence of the children’s parents. The family involved stated they had reprimanded him in the past. Gus Elham claimed his actions stemmed from feelings of affection or being “adorable” toward the children. However, netizens interpreted the behavior as dangerous grooming since minors cannot fully understand consent.

Public Reactions on Social Media

Netizens expressed widespread criticism regarding potential child abuse and the long-term impact on Islam’s public image. Many called for legal action against Gus Elham, labeling his behavior as “pedophilic” and drawing parallels to broader issues of sexual misconduct.

Some criticisms also referenced similar cases involving religious figures in the past.

On the other hand, a portion of users defended Gus Elham, citing cultural context—specifically the “ciuman barokah” (blessing kiss) tradition in certain NU pesantrens, where kissing is considered a gesture of spiritual blessing. Others argued that no parents present at the event objected at the time.

Institutional Responses

Several official bodies and public figures responded firmly to the incident:

PBNU

• Through Rais Aam KH Miftachul Akhyar, PBNU condemned Gus Elham’s behavior
• Requested legal proceedings
• Called for forming a task force on prevention and standardizing preacher ethics via LD PBNU

KPAI

• Considered the act a violation of the Child Protection Law and the Sexual Violence Crimes Law (TPKS)
• Urged the Ministry of Religious Affairs to provide strict guidance for preachers

Ministry of Women’s Empowerment & Child Protection (PPPA)

• Minister Arifah Fauzi highlighted grooming risks
• Stated the act cannot be categorized as affection

Ministry of Religious Affairs

• Deputy Minister Romo Muhammad Syafii requested strict monitoring, stating the act contradicts the principles of child-friendly pesantren
• Minister Nasaruddin Umar planned strengthened supervision of da’wah activities

House of Representatives (DPR – Commission VIII)

• Encouraged the Ministry of Religious Affairs to reform ethical standards for preachers

Other Figures

• Susi Pudjiastuti urged the National Police Chief to investigate
• MUI also commented on the incident, highlighting its seriousness

Conclusion

This case serves as an important reminder of the need for strong child protection measures within religious settings. Religious events must ensure a safe environment for children and prevent long-term trauma that could erode public trust in preachers.

One positive outcome is the growing public discourse around ethical standards for religious leaders. The incident has prompted calls for tighter supervision and clearer guidelines to prevent behaviors that could be categorized as sexual misconduct.

Ultimately, the case highlights the importance of safeguarding minors and ensuring that religious spaces prioritize their well-being and dignity.

Contributors

Muhammad Ihza Rey (Socindex)

Aan K. Riyadi