Health Crisis at Pesantren Miftahul Ulum in West Kalimantan: 78% of Students Suffer from Itching Due to Cloudy Water

West Kalimantan, November 20, 2025. The Chairperson of CEHP UNUSA together with the Director of ZISWAF CTARSA conducted a water quality survey at the Pesantren Miftahul Ulum, West Kalimantan. This survey aimed to assess the condition of the water currently used by students. The results of the observation showed that the water quality in the Islamic boarding school environment was very poor, with the water being cloudy and polluted. In addition, it was found that as many as 78% of students experienced itching complaints, which were strongly suspected to be related to the poor water quality.

 

In response to these findings, CEHP UNUSA, along with CTARSA, initiated a clean water assistance program focused on installing a water filter system at the Pesantren Miftahul Ulum. The installation of this filter is expected to address water quality issues that have been a trigger for various health problems among students. This assistance program represents a concrete manifestation of collaboration between the two institutions to improve the health and quality of life of the Islamic boarding school community through adequate access to clean water.

 

During the visit, the Chair of CEHP UNUSA emphasized the importance of clean water quality for Islamic boarding school environments to ensure that teaching and learning activities are not disrupted by health issues. He also emphasized that clean water is a basic right that must be fulfilled to ensure the sustainable health of students. The Director of ZISWAF CTARSA also added that this program is expected to be the first step in raising awareness of the importance of maintaining water quality in Islamic boarding school environments.