Malanginspirasi.com – In welcoming the 2025/2026 academic year, the Malang City Government (Pemkot Malang) has once again demonstrated its commitment to education by allocating Rp6 billion to provide free uniforms for new students in elementary schools (SD) and junior high schools (SMP). This initiative is part of the priority policies of Malang Mayor Wahyu Hidayat and Deputy Mayor Ali Muthohirin, aiming to support students and their families while ensuring equal access to education.
Suwarjana, Head of the Malang City Department of Education and Culture (Disdikbud), explained that the distribution of uniforms will take place at the beginning of the new academic year.
However, implementation is pending the issuance of a Mayor Regulation (Perwal) to provide a legal basis for the program.
“Uniforms will be provided to first-grade SD students and seventh-grade SMP students. The distribution will begin at the start of the new academic year once the Perwal is officially issued,” explained Suwarjana on Monday, May 19, 2025.
The program covers national school uniforms—red and white for elementary students and blue and white for junior high school students—as well as scout uniforms for both levels.
Interestingly, Disdikbud is currently considering two forms of assistance: either providing fabric along with sewing costs or supplying ready-made uniforms.
“Personally, I hope to provide fabric and sewing fees. But all depends on the regulations. If that is not feasible, the form might be ready-to-wear uniforms,” he added.
Although the technical details are awaiting the Perwal, Disdikbud has prepared various scenarios to ensure the smooth and timely distribution of the uniforms.
“We hope the Perwal will be issued soon so that the distribution of free uniforms can proceed according to schedule and comply with local financial regulations,” Suwarjana explained.
In addition to the free uniform program, the Malang City Government has also launched a program providing 1,000 educational scholarships, which has been running since March 2025.
These scholarships aim to support students from underprivileged families in continuing their education without financial obstacles.
“The scholarship funds are transferred directly to the respective students’ bank accounts. This program has been implemented targeting students who genuinely require educational support,” Suwarjana noted.
These policies reflect the Malang City Government’s mission to create an inclusive, equitable, and high-quality education system for all residents. The free uniform and scholarship programs are concrete manifestations of the government’s dedication to supporting students in Malang City.
