The Transformation of Indonesia’s National Curriculum in the Merdeka Belajar Era

Abstract

This study explores the development of Indonesia’s national curriculum between 2019 and 2023, focusing on the implementation of the Merdeka Belajar policy and the Merdeka Curriculum. Employing a historical research method, this paper analyzes academic literature and policy documents to examine the direction of curriculum transformation within evolving social, cultural, and technological contexts. The findings indicate that the Merdeka Curriculum represents a pivotal shift from a content-based approach to competency- and freedom-based learning, reflecting Indonesia’s broader educational reform agenda. The reform emphasizes school autonomy, authentic assessment, and project-based learning to strengthen the “Pancasila Student Profile,” which integrates moral, intellectual, and civic values into the learning process. Nevertheless, implementation challenges persist, including teacher preparedness, unequal digital infrastructure, and managerial capacity gaps among schools. Furthermore, the ongoing adaptation of learning models and assessment systems requires continuous professional development and policy alignment. Overall, this study concludes that Indonesia’s curriculum transformation reflects a strategic effort to build an adaptive, innovative, inclusive, and character-oriented education system that aligns with the aspirations of Society 5.0 and the future of sustainable education.