VOINews, Kudus: Minister of Elementary and Secondary Education (Mendikdasmen), Abdul Mu’ti, introduced the "Indonesian Child Greatness Gymnastics" program to students under the Manafiul Ulum Islamic Education Foundation in Getassrabi Village, Gebog District, Kudus, Central Java, on Sunday (5/1).
The program's launch was marked by a mass gymnastics session involving over a thousand students and teachers from the foundation’s Madrasah Ibtidaiyah (MI), Madrasah Tsanawiyah (MTs), and Madrasah Aliyah (MA). The activity took place in the MI Manafiul Ulum schoolyard, which is situated within the same complex as MTs NU Al Hidayah and MA NU Al Hidayah.
Speaking at the event, Minister Abdul Mu’ti emphasized that the gymnastics initiative is part of a broader program to strengthen character education across Indonesia. "This activity is conducted simultaneously nationwide. Today, it takes place here at MI Manafiul Ulum Kudus," said Mu’ti, who also highlighted his personal connection to the school as an alumnus from 1980.
The program, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Ministry of Religious Affairs, and the Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to inspire students to embody the spirit of becoming a “great Indonesian generation.” Mu’ti expressed hope that his alma mater’s involvement would motivate students to pursue excellence and adopt healthy, positive habits.
"Before classes begin, we have three activities known as 'Morning Assembly' or 'Pagi Ceria,' which include this gymnastics program, singing the national anthem 'Indonesia Raya,' praying, and then entering the classroom," explained Mu’ti. He encouraged schools to hold morning gymnastics sessions daily but acknowledged the limitations of school facilities, suggesting a minimum of twice a week as a feasible alternative to keep students active.
The minister also introduced the “Seven Habits of Great Indonesian Children,” a program launched alongside the Morning Assembly initiative. These habits promote waking up early, worshipping, exercising, studying diligently, consuming nutritious food, engaging in community activities, and maintaining a healthy sleep routine.
"This initiative represents a new movement to strengthen character education, promote healthy living habits, and foster positive activities," he said. "Through this, our children can achieve physical health, spiritual well-being, academic success, and virtuous character."
The seven habits program is set to be implemented gradually as schools reopen following the Christmas and New Year holidays. Mu’ti expressed optimism that these efforts would contribute to developing a generation of Indonesians who are physically, mentally, and morally prepared to face the future challenges.
With this inspiring program, the Ministry hopes to instill lifelong habits that will not only benefit students but also nurture a healthier and more disciplined society./ANTARA/VOI
