In the 2025/2026 academic year, Indonesia began adopting a deep learning approach and introducing optional subjects such as Coding and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for the national curriculum. Many teachers in Indonesia are expressing a wide range of reactions in response to the recent curriculum changes. Some teachers agree and others feel confused with. But the question remains: is this a new curriculum, or just an update to the existing one?
This question arises as a response from the author after observing the diverse reactions of fellow educators toward the current national curriculum implemented in Indonesia. Many teachers, both those in the author’s workplace and others in various social media group, still express confusion regarding the learning outcomes outlined in the decree issued by the Head of the Education Standards, Curriculum, and Assessment Agency of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, Number 046/H/KR/2025.
However, according to the Regulation of the Ministry for Education Primary and Secondary Education No. 13 of 2025 to revise Permendikbudristek No. 12 of 2024, clearly states that there is no new national curriculum, both the 2013 Curriculum and the Merdeka Curriculum will continue to be used depending on each school’s readiness. The regulation is administrative in nature. It aligns the Ministry’s name with current structures, reinforces policy direction, and introduces a deep learning approach along with new optional subjects like Coding and AI.
For original source, please click Permedikbudristek No. 13 Tahun 2025
In addition, The Minister of Education and Culture said that Deep Learning is not a new curriculum, but a learning approach. He also added that not all of the schools in Indonesia will apply the curriculum. It depends on the school readiness for applying the curriculum < See Abdul Mu'ti statement >
He also explained that Deep Learning is a learning approach that will be focused on the curriculum implementation that emphasized on understanding, relevance and engagement. Meanwhile, Coding and AI are introduced as optional subjects to equip students with essential digital skill. So, it is an optional, not a must. In fact, many non-math of IT teachers strongly give reaction and are worried to implement Coding and AI for learning process in their class.
Therefore, I think teachers only need to Deep Learning for the learning process. The three main principles of this approach are Mindful, Meaningful and Joyful. In Mindful learning, teachers should appreciate individual differences and enabling students to discover effective ways of learning. In Meaningful learning, content that is relevant and applicable to daily life. In Joyful learning, enjoyable learning that motivates students to actively build their own understanding.
By or without deep learning, actually teachers need focus on the students' engagement and joyful in learning. The students' engagement will be present if teacher give real situation or real learning need. There are many learning methods and techniques can get along with Deep Learning. Therefore, teachers no need worried with the curriculum changes.