DPR Urges Thorough Review of Tuition Fee Proposal for Senior High Schools in West Java

The House of Representatives (DPR) has cautioned that the proposal to reintroduce Sumbangan Pembinaan Pendidikan (SPP) fees for senior high school and vocational school students from well-off families must be carefully studied by the West Java Provincial Government. Lalu Hadrian Irfani, Deputy Chairman of the DPR’s Commission X, stated that while the policy is understandable in principle as a means to support education financing, its implementation must be based on a comprehensive, transparent, and equitable review. He emphasised that the regional government must ensure no students from underprivileged families are affected and that clear criteria and mechanisms are established to prevent social disparity or public controversy. The proposal emerged during discussions within the West Java Regional House of Representatives (DPRD) special committee, suggesting that tuition fees be reactivated only for students from families classified in Desil 6 to Desil 10, while education remains free for those from poor and vulnerable families in Desil 1 to Desil 5. West Java Education Agency head Purwanto confirmed the matter is still under deliberation and no official decision has been made.