MAN 1 Yogyakarta Holds Early Detection Socialization on Radicalism

Yogyakarta, Indonesia — MAN 1 Yogyakarta held an educational socialization program on the early detection of radicalism in schools on Wednesday (20/05/2026). The activity was organized as an effort to increase awareness of the spread of radical ideologies within educational environments. The program featured Octaviani, S.H., and Bayu Antasena, S.H., from the Prevention Team of Detachment 88 Anti-Terror Corps as the speakers.

In her presentation, Octaviani explained that the spread of radicalism today often targets teenagers. Therefore, schools play an important role in providing education and character building so students are not easily influenced by extremist ideologies.

She explained that radicalism develops through several stages.

“Radicalism begins with intolerance, which is the attitude of not respecting or appreciating others. Intolerance is considered the root of radicalism because individuals are first exposed through their mindset. The next stage develops into radicalism and can eventually lead to acts of terrorism,” she stated.

During the session, students learned about the spread of radical ideas through digital propaganda and social media platforms alongside technological developments. Several online games such as Roblox, Free Fire, and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang have reportedly been misused by certain groups for recruitment purposes. Communication features within the games are used to expand networks and approach teenagers as potential targets.

Octaviani also highlighted the existence of a WhatsApp group called TCC (True Crime Community), which she described as a platform spreading violent extremist ideologies targeting children and teenagers in Indonesia. She mentioned a bombing case at a Jakarta high school in which the perpetrator was allegedly connected to the group. Factors such as bullying and lack of communication within families were identified as reasons why teenagers may become vulnerable to extremist influence.

The Principal of MAN 1 Yogyakarta, H. Edi Triyanto, S.Ag., S.Pd., M.Pd., stated that the activity was important in helping students become wiser in their digital interactions.

“We hope this socialization program will help MAN 1 Yogyakarta students gain a better understanding of the dangers of radicalism and protect themselves from negative influences on social media and digital platforms. The school also continues to promote tolerance, moderation, and positive character values in daily life,” he said.

Through this activity, students are expected to become more responsible in using social media and more selective in filtering the information they receive. The speakers also reminded participants that social media algorithms can influence what people read, watch, and hear, making it important for young people to think critically and carefully when accessing digital content. (mzs)