Malang, East Java, July 13, 2026 – The Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) issued Circular Letter No. 18 of 2026 concerning Restrictions on Device Use in Educational Units. This aims to encourage students to use digital technology wisely, safely, and responsibly.
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Abdul Mu'ti, emphasized that the policy is not intended to prohibit the use of gadgets, but rather to regulate their use so that they are more targeted and support the learning process.
"The restrictions are not prohibitions, but rather how they use digital technology, especially gadgets, wisely, judiciously, and for educational purposes," said the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education.
Through the circular, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education encourages the creation of a safe and comfortable learning culture, increases students' concentration in learning, strengthens social interactions between students, supports the Seven Habits of Great Indonesian Children Movement, protects students from the negative impacts of inappropriate gadget use, builds a healthy, safe, wise, and responsible digital culture, and optimizes the use of digital technology to support learning.
Device use restrictions are implemented during learning activities in educational institutions. This policy is part of an effort to protect children from various risks associated with digital technology, such as digital addiction, exposure to negative content, online violence, cybersecurity threats, and even physical and mental health problems. Strengthening digital literacy is also crucial to ensuring students' ability to use technology productively and responsibly.
The Minister of Primary and Secondary Education considers this policy relevant given the high intensity of internet use in Indonesia. According to data, the average Indonesian spends 7 hours and 32 minutes online every day.
"If they don't use technology for positive purposes, it will lead to many problems involving both mental and physical health. Therefore, we strongly encourage collaboration between schools, families, communities, and digital service providers," he continued.
Through Circular Letter No. 18 of 2026, heads of educational units are encouraged to adjust school regulations regarding restrictions on device use to suit the characteristics, needs, and conditions of each educational unit. This ensures that digital technology remains a viable option for the learning process, but with clear regulations.
In addition, educators and education personnel are expected to be role models in using digital technology wisely, safely, and responsibly while in the educational environment.
The Ministry of Education and Culture also encourages parents and guardians to play an active role in supporting the implementation of this policy within the family. Parents are encouraged to practice wise device use by implementing the 3S principle: screen time, screen zones, and screen breaks, appropriate to the child's age, developmental level, and needs.
Through collaboration between schools, families, communities, and various parties, the Ministry of Elementary and Secondary Education hopes that the policy of limiting device use can shape a healthier digital culture while creating a learning environment that is safe, comfortable, and supports optimal student growth and development.*** (Author: Stephanie/Documentation: BKHM)
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