Minister Mu'ti Urges Schools to Use MPLS as a Platform to Discover New Students' Potential

Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen) Abdul Mu’ti is encouraging schools to utilise the 2026 Friendly School Orientation Period (MPLS Ramah) as a momentum to recognise the potential, talents, and character of new students, rather than just a ceremonial activity at the start of the academic year. He conveyed this at the opening of the 2026 Friendly MPLS at SMK Negeri 2 Singosari, Malang Regency, East Java, on Monday (13/7). According to him, every Indonesian child has abilities that need to be developed from the moment they enter the school environment. Therefore, MPLS activities must be designed to help students adapt while simultaneously identifying their interests and talents. “MPLS Ramah is a momentum to discover, explore, and develop the talents of Indonesian children. Basically, every Indonesian child is great,” said Abdul Mu’ti in a statement on Monday (13/7). He added that schools must become safe, inclusive, and comfortable learning spaces for all students regardless of their background. A positive school environment is considered a crucial foundation for building character and improving the quality of learning. As a guide, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education has published the 2026 Friendly MPLS Reference Book, which contains various activities ranging from school culture introduction, ‘Pagi Ceria’ (Cheerful Morning), the ‘Gerakan Indonesia ASRI’ (Beautiful Indonesia Movement), to materials on drug abuse prevention, the dangers of gambling, and the formation of disciplined and responsible character. Abdul Mu’ti stated that the school orientation period is also an initial gateway for students to prepare for their future while developing their potential. He stressed that MPLS must not become an arena for hazing or seniority between seniors and new students.