Media coverage from March 9-12, 2026, highlighted the alarming child mental health crisis in Indonesia, based on the results of the Free Health Check Program (CKG) for the 2025-2026 period. Of the approximately 7 million children examined, nearly 10 percent showed signs of mental health problems, with 338.000 children (4,4%) experiencing symptoms of anxiety and 363.000 children (4,8%) experiencing symptoms of depression. Furthermore, Indonesia faces significant challenges in eliminating leprosy, currently ranking third in the world, prompting the acceleration of national screening and surveillance efforts.
The government is also paying special attention to vigilance against measles transmission, especially ahead of periods of high mobility such as the Eid al-Fitr homecoming. The public is urged to increase prevention and ensure children receive measles immunizations as primary protection. To support the smooth running of the homecoming season, the Ministry of Health has set up approximately 7.000 health posts and is providing free health checks for bus drivers to ensure safe travel.
In an effort to strengthen the long-term health system, the Ministry of Health is collaborating with the Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) for the 2026-2030 period to oversee the pharmaceutical industry, eradicate corruption, and reduce drug prices to make them more affordable for the public. Furthermore, a focus on post-disaster recovery, particularly in Sumatra, is being implemented through a budget allocation of Rp 529 billion and the provision of a grant of 31 ambulances to strengthen local health services.
