Deputy Head of MPR values ​​Compulsory English Policy in Primary Schools to strengthen Human Resource foundations

Jakarta – Deputy Speaker of the Indonesian Constituent Assembly, Lestari Moerdijat (Rerie) has welcomed the move by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education (Kemendikdasmen) to determine English as a compulsory subject (maple) at primary school (SD) level starting in the 2027/2028 academic year. This policy is considered a strategic step in strengthening the foundations of the quality of human resources (HR) from an early age. According to him, mastering English since primary school will be an important provision for Indonesia’s young generation to face global competition. “This policy shows the direction of visionary national education. Introduction to English from an early age is not just about language, but part of efforts to prepare a generation that is self-confident, adaptable and competitive at international level,” Rerie said in a written statement on Friday (24/10/2025). PAGE TO CONTINUE CONTENT He believes that the Ministry of Basic Education’s approach, which emphasizes communication skills rather than grammar, is correct. A communicative approach will not make children afraid of speaking English. “The focus is on how they are able to express their ideas with confidence,” explained the member of the Commission “communication media so you don’t need too much grammar,” Mu’ti said. In this regard, Rerie emphasized the importance of teachers’ readiness to implement this policy. “Increasing teacher capacity is the key. “The state must ensure that there is training and assistance so that its implementation is effectively and evenly distributed throughout Indonesia,” he said. According to him, this policy is in line with the Golden Indonesia 2045 vision which places the mastery of foreign languages, especially English, as one of the global competencies that the younger generation must possess. teachers, curriculum and learning facilities. “This policy is positive, but readiness in the field must be a priority. “The government must ensure that all primary schools, including those in 3T (disadvantaged, border and outer areas), have competent teachers and adequate supporting facilities,” stressed the member of the NasDem Party High Council. Rerie also urged the Ministry of Education and Culture to speed up training and certification programs for English teachers at the primary school level. According to him, without the support of qualified teaching staff, this policy could create new gaps between schools in big cities and those in remote areas. Apart from that, continues Rerie, attention must be paid to the development of contextual and age-appropriate teaching materials for primary school pupils. “We don’t want English to be a burden on children. “The approach should be communicative and fun to form a strong foundation for language skills,” he added. The implementation of compulsory English in primary schools, Rerie added, is expected to increase the competitiveness of the country’s children and open wider opportunities for the younger generation to participate in global events. be part of a long-term investment in building superior human resources for a Golden Indonesia 2045,” concluded Rerie. Also watch the video “Mendiknasmen on the Challenges of Improving the Quality of English Teachers” here: (akn/ega)