Digital Literacy Prototype 'Sikomhati' Implemented at Yogyakarta High School to Combat Bullying

A research-based digital literacy prototype, Sikomhati.id, has been implemented at SMAN 1 Seyegan in Sleman, Yogyakarta, as part of an effort to strengthen digital literacy and reduce the potential for bullying and cyberbullying in schools. The programme, funded by the Directorate of Research and Community Service (DPPM) of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology for 2026, involved hundreds of students and teachers.

Led by Professor Puji Lestari from UPN Veteran Yogyakarta, the initiative began with a pretest to assess students’ initial understanding of ‘heart communication’, bullying, and cyberbullying. The results informed a five-week treatment programme delivered via the Sikomhati.id platform, covering heart communication for three weeks, followed by one week each on bullying and cyberbullying reduction. A post-test was then conducted to measure changes in students’ knowledge, attitudes, and behaviour.

Professor Puji Lestari stated that technological advancements present new challenges for Generation Z, with social conflicts arising from bullying, cyberbullying, identity crises, loneliness, and a loss of empathy representing serious social and mental disasters. ‘Bullying should not be considered normal or just a joke. A single word can cause prolonged psychological pressure and even cost lives,’ she said, citing a case where a patient died after receiving negative online comments. She introduced the concept of ‘heart communication’, which combines positive thinking, emotional processing, and empathy to create inner peace. She urged students to ‘saring before sharing’—to filter information before disseminating it.

Sunarya, the school’s Vice Principal for Curriculum, acknowledged that while bullying cases at SMAN 1 Seyegan are minimal, the school remains vigilant. He recounted a past incident stemming from a misunderstanding and a poorly received joke, which was resolved through counselling and mediation with parents. He welcomed the Sikomhati.id prototype, noting that its approach not only suppresses bullying but also helps prevent other negative behaviours, including street crime. The school hopes the collaboration with UPN Veteran Yogyakarta will continue, as it requires further references and training for teachers to handle emerging cases comprehensively.