Mon Oct 06 06:00:46 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

A building collapse at the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, East Java, Indonesia, has resulted in a tragic loss of life. As of October 6, 2025, the death toll has reached at least 50, with rescuers continuing to search for an estimated 13 more trapped victims. The collapse, attributed to unsupported construction on upper floors, is the deadliest disaster in Indonesia this year. The incident raises concerns about building permits and structural safety of the country’s 42,000 Islamic schools, most of which lack proper permits.

**News Article:**

**Indonesia School Collapse Death Toll Climbs to 50, Raising Building Safety Concerns**

**JAKARTA -** The death toll from the collapse of the Al Khoziny Islamic Boarding School in Sidoarjo, East Java, Indonesia, has tragically risen to at least 50, making it the country’s deadliest disaster of 2025. Rescue workers have been tirelessly searching through the debris since the collapse on Monday, September 29, 2025.

Authorities have confirmed that the majority of the victims were teenage boys. Deputy Budi Irawan of the Disaster Mitigation Agency stated that rescuers have cleared most of the rubble and expect to complete the search for the remaining victims by the end of Monday, October 6, 2025.

Search and Rescue Agency official Yudhi Bramantyo indicated the death toll could climb further as more body parts were discovered amidst the wreckage.

The cause of the collapse has been attributed to construction work on the upper floors that the school’s existing structure could not support. The incident has prompted serious questions about the structural integrity and regulatory oversight of Indonesia’s 42,000 Islamic schools (pesantren). According to the Religious Affairs Ministry, only a small fraction, a mere 50 pesantren, possess the necessary building permits.

Public Works Minister Dody Hanggodo expressed concern over the widespread lack of proper permits, raising fears that other schools may be at risk.

While it remains unclear whether Al Khoziny possessed a valid building permit, this tragedy has sparked calls for a thorough review of building regulations and increased enforcement to prevent similar disasters in the future. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to prioritize safety and ensure the well-being of students in educational institutions across Indonesia.

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