<![CDATA[This study aims to describe the moral values found in the short story collection Seandainya Kau Jadi Ikan by Isbedy Stiawan ZS and to explore their utilization as teaching materials for Indonesian language instruction in vocational high schools (SMK). The study is motivated by the importance of strengthening character education within the Kurikulum Merdeka (Independent Curriculum) and the need for teaching materials that go beyond cognitive aspects to support the development of students' character. A qualitative approach with a descriptive method was employed. The primary data source was the short story collection “Seandainya Kau Jadi Ikan” by Isbedy Stiawan ZS, focusing specifically on three stories: "Mereka Hendak Merobohkan Pohon Tua," "Kami Dirampok untuk Kedua Kali," and "Seandainya Kau Jadi Ikan." Data collection involved intensive reading, identification, note-taking, classification, documentation, and interviews. The data were analyzed using techniques of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The results reveal four primary moral values based on Rachels' theory: courage, generosity, honesty, and loyalty. These values are manifested through the actions, dialogue, and behavior of the characters in the stories. The findings also indicate that the identified moral values can be utilized as teaching materials specifically in the form of handouts for Indonesian language lessons. The use of these materials helps students understand the intrinsic elements of short stories, identify life values, and increase their engagement in the learning process. Thus, short stories hold potential as learning media that support the strengthening of students' character education]]>
