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Dok/Kementerian Kesehatan
Indonesia And WHO Build Better Health
Friday, 17 Jan 2025
Indonesia and the World Health Organization (WHO) have worked closely together for many years, starting when Indonesia became a WHO member in 1950. This partnership aims to improve the health system in Indonesia.
As part of this collaboration, Indonesia actively engages in various global health programs. Through joint efforts, Indonesia and WHO have successfully implemented important initiatives to enhance the health quality of the Indonesian population.
Dr. Widyawati, spokesperson for the Indonesian Ministry of Health, stated that a significant milestone in the Indonesia-WHO partnership is the implementation of the 14th General Programme of Work (GPW).
GPW-14 has a clear vision to promote, provide, and protect health and well-being for everyone, everywhere. The program is divided into three main pillars, six strategic goals, and fifteen shared outcomes.
“GPW14 aims for 1.2 billion people to live healthier lives with reduced risks and a healthier environment. Additionally, it seeks to ensure that over 430 million more people can access essential health services without financial hardship, while also protecting over 600 million people from health emergencies,” Widyawati said in Jakarta.
To achieve the goals of GPW-14, WHO estimates a funding requirement of $11.1 billion for the period from 2025 to 2028. This funding will support various health programs in member countries, including Indonesia.
For the 2024-2025 period, WHO is committed to providing the Indonesian government with a grant of $14 million in cash and services, along with $4.26 million worth of donated goods. These funds will be allocated to support priority health programs, including improving access to primary health services, controlling infectious diseases, and promoting health.
Collaboration with WHO has led to significant achievements in improving public health in Indonesia. First, there has been success in routine immunization programs. WHO provided technical support and vaccines, which helped reduce infant and child mortality from preventable diseases like polio, measles, and diphtheria.
"During outbreaks of certain diseases, WHO also supported additional immunization campaigns to boost coverage and prevent disease spread," Widyawati added.
Second, efforts to control infectious diseases have improved. Indonesia has enhanced early detection, treatment, and prevention of tuberculosis transmission. Additionally, the malaria control program, supported by WHO, has successfully reduced malaria cases, especially in endemic areas. WHO also provided technical and financial support for HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care.
Third, there has been progress in maternal and child health. WHO has assisted in improving the health of pregnant women, newborns, and children, leading to a decrease in maternal and infant mortality rates.
"Efforts to enhance access for pregnant women include antenatal care, safe childbirth, and postpartum health services. For child health, WHO has helped Indonesia improve child nutrition, immunization, and early detection of developmental issues," Widyawati stated.
Strengthening Partnerships
According to spokesperson Widyawati, the fourth achievement of Indonesia and WHO's collaboration is in emergency preparedness and response. During the COVID-19 pandemic, WHO was a strategic partner, providing technical and logistical support, including surveillance, contact tracing, and vaccination.
"Furthermore, WHO assisted Indonesia in responding to natural disasters like earthquakes, floods, and volcanic eruptions by providing medical and logistical aid," she explained.
