Safeguarding Adolescents in Tahfiz Centres: A Case Study of Sexuality and Reproductive Health (SRH) Education, Authority and Structural Risk

Abstract

Background: In Malaysia, the rapid proliferation of tahfiz (Qur’anic memorisation) centres has outpaced regulatory oversight, creating a significant "protection vacuum" regarding adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH). This study examines the implementation of SRH education within these religious residential institutions, focusing on how authority structures and living arrangements shape adolescent risk.

Methods: A qualitative case study design was employed, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 11 expert SRH trainers (N=11) from a specialised NGO. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis to explore trainers’ experiences and the institutional dynamics of tahfiz environments.

Results: Two overarching themes emerged: (1) Structural Vulnerability and the Protection Vacuum, characterized by informal governance, overcrowded dormitory arrangements that compromise privacy, and a transactional model of parental engagement; and (2) Barriers to Culturally Safe SRH Delivery, involving significant teacher awareness gaps and a systemic distrust of conventional SRH frameworks perceived as "Westernised". Findings reveal that high trust in religious authority coexists with adolescent literacy gaps, as many students struggle to differentiate between safe and unsafe touch.

Conclusion: The results underscore an urgent need for faith aligned safeguarding policies and teacher capacity-building. For the nursing profession, the findings identify a critical role for community and school nurses as cultural brokers who can bridge the gap between religious values and adolescent health rights. Strengthening institutional collaboration and funding is essential for the sustainable protection of adolescents in religious residential settings.