Indonesia and India Forge Health Partnership, Including Robotic Surgery Training
In a monumental step towards enhancing healthcare, Indonesia and India have officially cemented a partnership in the health sector. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin and Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar during the state visit of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to India on January 24-26, 2025. This agreement marks a bilateral relationship that has spanned over seven decades, signifying a new chapter in health cooperation between the two nations.
The MoU encompasses various aspects of collaboration, including capacity building for healthcare professionals, technology transfer in pharmaceuticals, and partnerships in vaccine production and diagnostic tools. A notable commitment from India is the provision of direct training for Indonesian healthcare workers, including a fellowship program with temporary practice permits for one year. This program aims to enhance the competencies of Indonesian healthcare professionals in critical areas such as robotic surgery, liver transplantation, and emergency management.
“This cooperation is expected to not only improve the quality of healthcare services in both countries but also expand access to high-quality medical services for the public,” stated Minister Budi. During a visit to the Apollo Hospital in New Delhi, the Indonesian Health Minister observed firsthand the hospital-based training that optimizes medical facilities like MRI and Cath Labs. Indonesia plans to adopt a similar approach to expedite the development of specialist doctors and sub-specialists within its healthcare system.
Furthermore, Indonesia and India are strengthening their ties in the pharmaceutical sector through collaborations between Bio Farma and the Serum Institute of India (SII). The MoU between these entities includes the production and distribution of latent TB diagnostic tools and recombinant BCG vaccines (rBCG). SII has committed to transforming its manufacturing facility into a center for developing countermeasures for future pandemics.
Additionally, Biotis Indonesia has partnered with Biological E Limited for the transfer of vaccine production technology for children, such as DPT-HepB-Hib, PCV, and JE vaccines. While production facilities in Indonesia are being developed, Biological E will supply vaccines to ensure immunization availability for Indonesian children. A critical aspect of this MoU is the mutual recognition of healthcare qualifications from both countries, opening doors for doctors and nurses to work across borders, enhance knowledge transfer, and expand healthcare services, particularly in remote areas of Indonesia.
Through the implementation of this MoU, both nations are optimistic about bringing about tangible changes in the healthcare sector, both nationally and internationally. This collaboration epitomizes the spirit of “Moving Together for Health Together” that Indonesia continues to advocate for, showcasing a shared commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for all.
