West Java Governor’s Military Education Policy Sparks Debate
The policy introduced by West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi to send troubled children to military barracks for education has ignited a heated debate across Indonesia. Critics express concerns about the implications for children’s rights, while supporters see it as a necessary step to address increasing juvenile delinquency.
On April 29, 2025, Dedi Mulyadi announced his controversial initiative, stating that many parents and teachers are overwhelmed by the escalating misconduct of students. “Many parents and teachers can no longer cope with their students,” he remarked during a press conference at the Parliament Complex in Senayan. The governor’s approach aims to provide a structured and disciplined environment for youths who struggle to thrive within traditional educational frameworks.
As the policy unfolds, it has garnered attention from various sectors, including the Ministry of Human Rights (HAM). On May 6, 2025, Minister Natalius Pigai confirmed that his ministry would closely monitor the implementation of this program. He stated, “We will not only supervise but will also provide input on the policy if it is to be implemented nationally.” Pigai emphasized the necessity for a special focus on human rights education within the military training, ensuring that the initiative aligns with humanitarian values.
Moreover, Pigai expressed optimism about the program, suggesting that if successful, it could be expanded to other regions across Indonesia. He highlighted the importance of instilling respect for others in young people, noting, “From an early age, we need to teach them how to respect one another.” This sentiment underscores the delicate balance between enforcing discipline and maintaining a humane approach to education.
The governor’s initiative does not only target misbehaving children. In a similar vein, Dedi Mulyadi is also preparing to implement a policy aimed at civil servants (ASN) in West Java who exhibit poor work ethics. He plans to send unproductive and truant ASN to the Rindam III/Siliwangi military barracks for discipline training, echoing his approach to youth education. “Those who are unproductive and frequently absent will be sent here for military training,” he stated firmly.
During discussions about this plan with the Provincial Secretary of West Java, Herman Suyatman, it was revealed that the governor also intends to send outstanding students to military barracks. These students will undergo leadership training, which Dedi Mulyadi believes will foster resilience and a strong character. “We will send the top students to receive basic leadership training here to ensure they become strong individuals with the knowledge they possess,” he remarked.
Support for the governor’s policies is not unanimous. Critics argue that the militarization of education could lead to potential violations of children’s rights. Educational and human rights advocates have raised concerns about the suitability of military discipline for young minds. The Ministry of Human Rights has indicated that it will continue to evaluate the effectiveness and legality of the military program for troubled students if it is rolled out at the provincial or national level.
In line with these discussions, the Bandung Regent, Dadang Supriatna, expressed his support for the governor’s initiatives during a recent event commemorating National Awakening Day. He stressed the importance of implementing such policies with parental consent, stating, “This policy is one effort to instill discipline among school children but will only be implemented with parental approval.” Supriatna also called on parents to supervise their children’s associations and promote a structured lifestyle, urging them to encourage their children to go to bed early and wake up for morning prayers.
As the debate continues, many parents are hopeful that the governor’s initiative could lead to positive outcomes for their children. Some parents have expressed relief at the prospect of a structured environment for their misbehaving children, seeing it as a potential solution to the challenges they face in managing their behavior. The regent noted, “If we can provide mental education for character building, it will yield positive results for the children themselves.”
However, the broader implications of adopting a military-style education system remain contentious. Critics argue that while discipline is crucial, it should not come at the expense of children’s rights and well-being. There is a growing call for a more balanced approach that combines discipline with empathy and understanding.
As this policy evolves, it remains to be seen how it will impact the educational landscape in West Java and beyond. The governor’s initiative has certainly sparked a significant conversation about the role of discipline in education and the responsibilities of parents, educators, and government officials in shaping the future of Indonesia’s youth.
In the coming months, stakeholders from various sectors will likely engage in more discussions about the potential implementation of military education for troubled students. The Ministry of Human Rights has pledged to keep a close eye on the situation, ensuring that any actions taken respect the rights of children while addressing the pressing issues of discipline and behavior in schools.
As West Java navigates this controversial territory, the outcomes of these initiatives could set a precedent for educational policies across Indonesia, potentially influencing how future generations are taught and disciplined.
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