Education Ministry Issues Regulation No 12/2026, Bans Hazing in School Orientation

The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) has officially launched the 2026 School Environment Introduction Period (MPLS) policy with a new paradigm that prioritises safety and mental health. This policy aims to ensure that the first day of school becomes a happy experience for new students, free from the shadow of trauma or bullying.

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Abdul Mu’ti, stressed that this year’s MPLS has shifted from merely a physical meeting point to a melting point. This step is taken to dissolve differences and ensure that school becomes a safe, comfortable, and inclusive second home for all students.

“Ramah MPLS is not just a change of term, but a change in perspective in welcoming new students. From activities prone to violence and hazing to an MPLS full of compassion, honour, and a culture of peace,” said Abdul Mu’ti in an official statement on Tuesday (23/6).

The government’s commitment is now legally strengthened through the ratification of Permendikdasmen Number 12 of 2026 concerning the School Environment Introduction Period. This regulation explicitly and strictly prohibits all forms of hazing, physical or psychological violence, illegal levies, and the use of attributes with no educational value.

In the latest rule, the government also breaks the chain of negative seniority traditions by banning alumni involvement in organising MPLS. Instead, schools are required to involve parents through socialisation before the new academic year begins to build synergy between the home and school environments.

Kemendikdasmen emphasised that every activity during MPLS must be designed as a conscious, meaningful, and joyful learning experience. With strict supervision and a clear legal framework, the government hopes that no more violent practices will harm the world of education in Indonesia in the 2026/2027 academic year.