JAKARTA, July 16 — Indonesia has restricted the use of gadgets during learning activities at educational institutions under a new policy aimed at promoting the safe, responsible, and educational use of digital technology among students.
Primary and Secondary Education Minister Abdul Mu'ti said the restriction was not intended to ban the use of gadgets but to regulate their use so that they better support the learning process.
“The restriction is not a prohibition, but rather about ensuring students use digital technology, particularly gadgets, wisely, prudently and for educational purposes,” he said in a statement issued by the Primary and Secondary Education Ministry today.
The policy is outlined in the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education Circular Letter No. 18 of 2026 on the Restriction of Gadget Use in Educational Institutions, which was gazetted on Monday (July 13).
The ministry oversees early childhood, primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary education, as well as vocational, special, and equivalency education.
It added that the restriction applies during learning activities as part of efforts to protect children from risks associated with digital technology, including digital addiction, exposure to harmful content, online violence, cybersecurity threats, and physical and mental health problems.
The circular is also intended to foster a safe and conducive learning environment, improve students' concentration, strengthen social interaction among students, support the Seven Habits of Great Indonesian Children Movement, and promote a healthy, safe, and responsible digital culture.
