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Jakarta, Indonesia – Thousands of Indonesians received free health check-ups on Monday as the government launched an annual screening program aimed at improving preventative care and fulfilling a key election promise of President Prabowo Subianto.
The initiative ensures that Indonesians of all ages are now eligible for yearly medical examinations designed to aid in the early detection of cardiovascular diseases, congenital disorders in children, and other health conditions, according to government health officials.
The health check-up program is part of a broader set of social welfare commitments made during Prabowo’s election campaign, which also includes a free-meal initiative introduced last month to combat malnutrition and stunted growth in children.
Under the newly implemented healthcare scheme, young children and adults will receive a voucher on their birthday—or within 30 days afterward—that entitles them to a free screening at a community health center. Additionally, students between the ages of 7 and 17 will be eligible for check-ups at their schools, starting in July.
“This is a birthday present from the country to all citizens, and it officially began today,” Health Ministry spokesperson Widyawati, who, like many Indonesians, goes by a single name, stated on Monday. “As mandated by the constitution, every citizen is entitled to receive health services.”
The Indonesian government has set an ambitious target to provide health screenings to 60 million people this year and to reach the entire population of approximately 280 million by 2030. To fund this initiative, the government has allocated 4.7 trillion rupiah ($288 million), as confirmed by the presidential office.
Indonesia has already implemented a government-funded healthcare system covering medical treatments and hospitalizations for lower-income citizens. However, prior to this initiative, annual health screenings were not included.
Health experts note that stroke and heart disease are the leading causes of death in Indonesia, mirroring global trends. By promoting early detection through annual check-ups, the government hopes to reduce fatalities and improve public health outcomes.
In January, Prabowo’s administration also launched a $4.3 billion free-meal program targeting schoolchildren and pregnant women. This initiative aims to address childhood stunting, which currently affects one in five Indonesian children, with a goal of reducing the rate to five percent by 2045.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on available information and official statements from the Indonesian government. Updates or modifications to the program may occur over time. Readers are encouraged to verify details with official sources for the most current information.
