RRI.CO.ID, Surabaya - Indonesia's Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu'ti, received the Gold Category Jer Basuki Mawa Beya honorary award from East Java Governor, Khofifah Indar Parawansa, in Surabaya on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. The award was presented in recognition of his contributions to strengthening Indonesia’s education sector, particularly vocational education.

The honor acknowledged Abdul Mu’ti’s role in supporting the revitalization of educational institutions and expanding internship and employment opportunities for vocational high school graduates. The initiatives also include efforts to increase overseas employment opportunities for Indonesian vocational students.

Speaking after receiving the award, Abdul Mu’ti, expressed appreciation for the recognition and described it as motivation to continue improving the quality of education in Indonesia. He said the achievement reflected broader national efforts to strengthen human resource development through education.

“For me, this award is actually much greater than what I have personally contributed to education in Indonesia,” Abdul Mu’ti said. He added that his ministry remains committed to implementing the education policies and directives of President Prabowo Subianto.

The Jer Basuki Mawa Beya Gold Award was granted based on East Java Governor Decree Number 100.3.3.1/306/013/2026 regarding educational honorary awards in the province. The recognition is given to individuals considered to have made significant contributions to educational development in East Java and Indonesia.

The East Java provincial government said the award also reflects appreciation for collaboration between central and regional authorities in improving education and workforce readiness. Vocational education has become one of the government’s priorities in preparing graduates to meet the needs of industry and the labor market.

Governor Khofifah emphasized the importance of strengthening vocational education systems that are closely linked to employment opportunities and industrial development. According to her, cooperation between educational institutions, government agencies, and industry stakeholders is essential to improving Indonesia’s human capital competitiveness.

Indonesia has continued to push for reforms in vocational education as part of broader efforts to strengthen economic growth and workforce productivity. The government has also encouraged stronger partnerships with industries to ensure graduates possess skills relevant to evolving market demands.

The award ceremony highlighted ongoing efforts to improve access to quality education and create more employment pathways for young Indonesians. Officials hope the collaboration between national and regional governments will further support the development of a skilled and globally competitive workforce.