Minister: First day of school a gateway to happiness, not trauma
Jakarta (ANTARA) - Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Abdul Mu’ti, stated that the series of Friendly School Orientation (MPLS Ramah) activities prepared by schools must serve as a gateway welcoming new students with happiness, not providing trauma.
He noted that the high level of public attention on issues of bullying and children’s mental health has shifted this year’s MPLS paradigm from a physical meeting point to a melting point.
“MPLS Ramah is not just a change of terms, but a change in perspective in welcoming new students, from MPLS activities that were prone to violence, hazing, and lacked meaning, to an MPLS full of love, respect, and a culture of peace designed through conscious, meaningful, and joyful learning experiences,” said Minister Mu’ti in Jakarta on Wednesday.
He continued that this firm commitment now has a strong legal umbrella through the ratification of Permendikdasmen Number 12 of 2026 concerning the School Environment Orientation Period.
This regulation, according to Mu’ti, explicitly prohibits all forms of hazing, physical and psychological violence, illegal levies, and the use of attributes with no educational value.
Furthermore, this rule also breaks the chain of negative seniority traditions by prohibiting alumni from being involved in the organisation, and requires parental participation through socialisation before the new academic year begins.
On a separate occasion, Secretary General of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Suharti, added that this new regulation was designed based on an in-depth evaluation to prioritise the physical and psychological well-being of students.
“This regulation confirms that MPLS is a strategic moment to build a Safe and Comfortable School Culture from the very first day of school. Its implementation is regulated through planning, execution, and post-execution stages, and strengthens collaboration between schools and families through socialisation with parents or guardians before the activity takes place,” said Suharti.
Friendly MPLS 2026 sends a firm message to all parties in the education sector that the first day of school is a gateway to happiness, not the beginning of fear.
She asserted that it is time for Indonesian children to learn safely and grow comfortably for a future of education that is free from trauma.