Synergy between Central and Regional Governments Supports the National TB Alert Movement
By: Rizki Ardiansyah )*
Tuberculosis (TB) is still one of the major challenges in the health sector in Indonesia. Indonesia continues to strengthen its commitment to combating this disease comprehensively and sustainably. In this effort, synergy between the central government and regional governments is an important foundation in realizing the National TB Alert Movement as a collective movement to detect, prevent, and treat TB in all levels of society.
The National TB Alert Movement is real evidence of the central government’s visionary leadership in overcoming TB comprehensively. The central government through the Indonesian Ministry of Health has established a roadmap for TB elimination by 2030, complete with a national strategy and clear indicators of success. On the other hand, regional governments play an important role as the spearhead of program implementation in the field. The synergy between the center and regions makes this program more focused, responsive, and adaptive to the needs of the community in each region.
One form of synergy that stands out is strengthening the capacity of health services at the regional level. The central government provides regulatory support, budget, health worker training, and an integrated recording and reporting system. The local government, with its closeness to the community, ensures that these services reach all corners, including remote and vulnerable areas. This collaboration ensures that every individual has equal access to quality TB examination and treatment.
Not only that, the central and local governments also work together to build public awareness through massive information and education campaigns. Through a creative and inclusive communication approach, the public is invited to recognize the symptoms of TB, the importance of early detection, and the need to complete treatment to completion. This campaign not only raises awareness, but also fosters active community participation in tracking cases and supporting TB patients.
Deputy Minister of Home Affairs (Wamendagri), Ribka Haluk said that his party encouraged local governments to be more proactive in supporting the Joint Movement to Strengthen TB Alert Villages and Sub-districts. This movement was officially launched by the Minister of Health (Menkes) Budi Gunadi Sadikin as a form of government commitment to eradicating TB down to the village and sub-district levels. He also expressed appreciation for the Minister of Health who is considered active and has great concern for public health issues, and consistently coordinates with the Ministry of Home Affairs in various national health programs.
The success of TB control also requires cross-sector integration. The central government through the relevant ministries also supports with policies that support social empowerment, poverty alleviation, and improving nutrition. Regional governments also align these programs with regional policies so that they are more targeted and mutually reinforcing. With this multi-sector approach, the social and economic factors that are the root of the TB problem can be addressed comprehensively.
It is also important to highlight that this synergy is not only vertical, but also horizontal. Regions share experiences, strategies, and good practices in controlling TB. Regional coordination forums are facilitated by the central government to strengthen inter-regional networks, encourage innovation, and accelerate the replication of successful programs. This culture of mutual learning is a positive energy in strengthening national solidarity in dealing with TB.
The National TB Alert Movement also shows how important inclusive and visionary leadership is. In many regions, regional heads have shown a high commitment to making TB control a priority. Regional budget support, responsive local policies, and direct supervision of program implementation are concrete manifestations of public health support. The central government supports through appreciation, incentives, and ongoing technical assistance.
Meanwhile, Minister of Health (Menkes) Budi Gunadi Sadikin said that his party reminded the importance of supervision during TB treatment. TB patients need months to recover, and if treatment is stopped midway, patients can become resistant to drugs. In addition, his party also hopes that collaboration between the government and the community, especially in the Jakarta area, can ensure that supervision runs well. That way, Jakarta can become the first region to be completely free from TB.
