Indonesia's Education Ministry Limits Device Use in Schools

The Ministry of Education and Culture (Kemendikdasmen) issued Circular No. 18/2026 to regulate the use of electronic devices in schools. Minister Abdul Mu'ti emphasized that the measure is not a ban but a way to ensure devices are used responsibly for educational purposes, protect students from digital addiction, harmful content, cyber threats, and physical and mental health issues, and promote a safe learning environment. Schools are instructed to adjust their rules according to local conditions while encouraging digital literacy and responsible technology use during class time. The policy has drawn mixed reactions from parents and teachers, with some supporting the effort to curb dependence on gadgets and others concerned about implementation challenges.