Indonesia Emphasizes 'Safety and Security' for New School Year with Welcoming Program Reforms

Indonesia is ushering in a new school year with the commencement of the New Student Welcoming Program (MPLS) across schools nationwide. A key focus this year is the Ministry of Education's promotion of 'MPLS Ramah' (Friendly MPLS) and 'Gernas Rana' (Safe Learning Program). These initiatives are designed to ensure that new students can transition smoothly into school life by providing a safe and secure environment, rather than one filled with fear or anxiety. Past MPLS practices have been criticized for instances of excessive hazing by senior students and inappropriate rituals that sometimes escalated into bullying. Such experiences could leave new students with a negative first impression of school, potentially hindering their motivation to learn. The Ministry of Education is committed to eradicating these outdated customs and exploring more constructive and positive ways to welcome new students. 'MPLS Ramah' emphasizes creating a warm and approachable atmosphere, allowing new students to relax and feel at ease as they integrate into the school community. 'Gernas Rana' concentrates on ensuring safety within school premises, preventing bullying, and fostering an environment where every student can learn without fear. Through these efforts, Indonesian educational institutions aim to transform into spaces that nurture intellectual curiosity and the desire to learn, rather than instilling fear. This reform is positioned as a shared responsibility not only for the Ministry of Education but also for individual schools, teachers, and the entire parent community. The ability of new students to start their school life with a sense of security significantly impacts their subsequent academic performance and psychological development, thus requiring support from society as a whole for this new educational paradigm.