The collapse of the Al-Khoziny Islamic boarding school in Sidoarjo Regency, East Java Province, has shaken Indonesia. On Monday afternoon, while students were praying, the four-story building gave way, leaving at least one confirmed dead and dozens unaccounted for. 

Rescue teams reported that 99 people were saved, including eight students pulled from the rubble and 91 who managed to escape on their own.

Local media suggested that as many as 65 students might still be trapped, though this figure has not been officially confirmed. 

The collapse occurred at 3:35 p.m. local time (8:35 GMT), when roughly 100 students were inside. Authorities have not clarified whetSchool Dorm Collapse in East Java Leaves One Dead and Dozens Missing in Indonesia her the deceased was a student or a staff member. 

Nanang Sigit, the operation’s coordinator, described the conditions as extremely challenging: “Despite the instability of the debris, our teams continue to prioritize saving lives while ensuring their own safety.” 

Initial investigations point to structural weaknesses as the main cause. Authorities confirmed that construction work was underway on the fourth floor, and the building’s foundations may not have been strong enough to bear the additional load, leading to a total collapse from the top down. 

Two specialized teams continue clearing rubble as anxious families wait for word on missing students. The tragedy has reignited debate over construction standards in educational facilities across vulnerable regions of Indonesia.