Strengthening Central-Regional Synergy Boosts Effectiveness of National TB Alert Movement
JAKARTA – The National TB Alert Movement is increasingly showing its effectiveness as a national strategy in overcoming tuberculosis comprehensively. The central and regional governments are increasingly solid in their collaboration targeting strengthening health services, increasing early detection, and empowering communities. This step confirms Indonesia’s commitment to achieving the target of eliminating TB by 2030.
The government has designed strategic policies that touch on the root of the problem, from providing health infrastructure to integrated reporting mechanisms. The role of regional governments is crucial as direct implementers in the field, reaching areas with high levels of vulnerability. This two-way approach makes the program more relevant and effective.
One real form of this synergy is the launch of the Joint Movement to Strengthen TB Alert Villages and Sub-districts. Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Ribka Haluk, emphasized that strengthening from the lowest level will be the key to the success of this movement.
“Regional governments must be proactive in supporting this movement, because villages and sub-districts are the front line in controlling TB,” said Ribka Haluk.
He also appreciated the role of the Ministry of Health in ensuring effective inter-agency cooperation.
“The Minister of Health has great concern for public health issues and consistently coordinates with the Ministry of Home Affairs. This is worthy of appreciation,” added Ribka Haluk.
This movement is also complemented by an educational campaign that touches various levels of society. Various media are used creatively to convey important messages about the symptoms, dangers, and importance of completing TB treatment. The government ensures that this approach is inclusive, reaching vulnerable groups without discrimination.
In the same effort, the Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, emphasized the importance of continuing treatment for TB patients.
“Patients need long-term treatment, and supervision during this period is very important to prevent drug resistance,” said Budi Gunadi Sadikin.
He added that the DKI Jakarta area is being directed to become a TB-free pilot project.
“With strong supervision and community support, Jakarta can become the first province to be completely free from TB,” concluded Budi Gunadi Sadikin.
This positive momentum shows encouraging initial results, with an increase in early detection rates as an indication of the success of the system being built. The government continues to encourage cross-sector integration and collaboration between regions as part of a collective movement towards a TB-free Indonesia.
