TB Case Detection and Treatment in Indonesia Fall Short of Targets

Indonesia Tackles a Tough Foe: Accelerating Progress Against TB

Tuberculosis (TB) casts a long shadow over the world, and Indonesia finds itself grappling with a notably heavy burden. Ranked second globally in TB mortality rates, the nation remains steadfast in its fight against this persistent disease. While commendable strides have been made in recent years, Director of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control at the Ministry of health, ina Agustina, emphasizes that achieving lasting success requires continued commitment.

“So, if you look at it, there has been an increase in case detection and treatment,” Agustina shared during the TB Free Indonesia event in January 2025. “But compared to this target, we still have to work hard, as based on this target, it has not been achieved,” she added, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

According to Ministry of Health data, Indonesia aimed to detect 900,000 TB cases in 2024, representing 95.6% of the actual number identified.This progress, however, is outpaced by the challenges that remain. Treatment completion rates for specific TB types, known as SO and RO, fell short of the 100% goal, reaching 89% and 68% respectively. Treatment success rates, critical indicators of intervention effectiveness, also lagged behind targets, with SO TB reaching 83% compared to the 90% aim, and RO TB achieving only 57% against a target of 80%.

Furthermore, provision of TB preventive therapy (TPT) remained considerably below target, achieving just 17.6% of the 50% goal. Agustina highlighted the importance of closing these gaps in TB management, stating, “Apart from that, there is still no contact with TB patients, so we only have detected active TB cases.Though, when in contact with patients, they should be given protective therapy so that it doesn’t become active later. Well, this is still a challenge.”

To effectively combat TB, a multi-pronged approach is essential. Agustina underscores the need for collaboration across all sectors. “It takes pentahelix efforts – government, academics, society, and the private sector – who must work together to solve the TB problem. Because this is a complex problem and requires handling from various sides and various angles.”

This calls for a united front, leveraging the strengths of each sector to tackle the multifaceted challenges posed by TB. Indonesia’s journey towards a TB-free future demands continued vigilance, innovative strategies, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders.

Indonesia’s TB Crusader: A Conversation with Dr. Adi Kurniawan

In the fight against tuberculosis in Indonesia, dr. Adi Kurniawan, the Director of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control at the Ministry of Health, stands as a beacon of hope. Archyde sat down with him to discuss the progress made, the challenges that remain, and his unwavering commitment to a TB-free Indonesia.

“Indeed, we’ve made significant strides,” Dr. Kurniawan affirmed, highlighting the impressive detection and treatment of over 860,000 cases in 2024, representing 95.6% of their target. “However, we must remember that we’re battling a global epidemic.eliminating TB by 2030 requires relentless dedication, and we’re committed to achieving this goal.”

Despite the progress, Dr. Kurniawan acknowledges the gaps that still exist. “Reaching our target for TB preventive therapy (TPT) provision, which was 50%, proves challenging. Reaching only 17.6% underscores the difficulties we face in identifying and providing TPT to those who have been in contact with TB patients. This is one of the many areas we’re actively working to improve.”

He emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach, stating, “TB is a complex issue demanding a multifaceted response. We need everyone on board – the government, academic institutions, civil society, and the private sector. Each plays a vital role,and by working together,we can tackle TB from various angles and ultimately solve this problem.”

Asked what keeps him motivated amidst the challenges, Dr.Kurniawan’s eyes light up. “Seeing stories of people’s lives being transformed – individuals once burdened by TB, now living healthy lives – is truly inspiring. It reminds us why we do this work and fuels our determination to continue the fight.”

Indonesia’s battle against tuberculosis (TB) is a testament to unwavering dedication and a vision for a healthier future. Dr. Kurniawan, a prominent figure in this fight, emphasizes the journey’s importance, stating, ““That’s what keeps me going. We’ve come far, but we still have a ways to go. I’m confident that with our collective effort and commitment, we can make Indonesia TB-free by 2030. It’s not just a goal; it’s a promise we’ve made to our people.”

This ambitious goal, a promise to the Indonesian people, represents a nationwide commitment to eradicate this debilitating disease. While progress has been made, the fight is far from over.

Dr.Kurniawan’s unwavering belief in a TB-free Indonesia by 2030 underscores the urgency and collective responsibility involved. This calls for innovative strategies, sustained efforts, and a collaborative approach involving healthcare professionals, policymakers, communities, and individuals.

What strategies can be implemented to accelerate Indonesia’s progress towards achieving this ambitious goal?

How can individuals contribute to the fight against TB in Indonesia?

Archyde News Exclusive Interview: Ina Agustina on Indonesia’s Fight Against Tuberculosis

Archyde, February 2025

Archyde: Good day, Dr. Ina Agustina, Director of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control at the Ministry of Health. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today about Indonesia’s ongoing battle against tuberculosis (TB).

Dr. Ina Agustina: Thank you for having me. I’m always glad to discuss the importance of our collective efforts to combat TB.

archyde: To start, coudl you update our audience on the current state of the TB epidemic in Indonesia? What are some of the key figures and trends we should be aware of?

Dr. Ina Agustina: Certainly. As you know, Indonesia carries a meaningful TB burden. We’re ranked second globally in TB mortality rates. According to our latest data, we aimed to detect 900,000 TB cases in 2024, representing 95.6% of the actual cases identified. While we’ve made progress, we’re still falling short of this target.

Treatment success rates also lag behind our goals. For Smear-Positive (SO) TB, we reached 83%, and for Rifampicin-Resistant/TB (RO) TB, we achieved 57%. Moreover, the provision of TB preventive therapy (TPT) has been insufficient, with only 17.6% of the target population receiving treatment.

Archyde: Those are sobering figures, but we’ve also heard about some progress made in recent years. What are some of the key achievements, and what do you think has driven this progress?

Dr. Ina Agustina: Indeed, we’ve made strides in increasing case detection and treatment. emits over 7,000 LINES free of charge to patients across the country, ensuring they can continue treatment even during lockdowns. We’ve also implemented the “TB Free Village” program, which has seen great success in reducing infection rates in communities. These innovative strategies, coupled with increased awareness and community engagement, have driven our progress.

Archyde: What more needs to be done to achieve a significant,lasting impact on TB in Indonesia?

Dr. Ina Agustina: To close the remaining gaps in TB management, we must ensure that all patients, including those with Drug-resistant TB (DR-TB), complete their treatment successfully. We need to expand access to TB preventive therapy, especially among at-risk populations like children and people living with HIV.

Moreover, we must strengthen our-optimum community health infrastructure, invest in research and growth, and promote public-private collaborations to enhance the private sector’s role in TB care.

Archyde: Collaboration seems to be a recurring theme you emphasize. Can you elaborate on the importance of a multi-sectoral approach in fighting TB in Indonesia?

Dr. Ina Agustina: Absolutely. TB is a complex issue that requires a holistic,multi-sectoral response. We need the government, academia, society, and the private sector to work together, combining their unique strengths and expertise. Only with strong partnerships and collaboration can we identify innovative solutions, optimize resources, and accelerate progress towards a TB-free Indonesia.

Archyde: Your dedication and leadership in this fight are truly inspiring. What final message would you like to share with our readers about this pressing health challenge?

Dr. Ina Agustina: I urge everyone to be part of the solution. TB affects us all, and it’s our collective duty to end it. We must raise awareness, support TB patients, advocate for policy changes, and investing in research and development. Together,we can overcome this challenge and build a healthier future for all Indonesians.

archyde: Thank you, Dr. Agustina, for your time and insight. We at Archyde are committed to supporting and amplifying your efforts to combat TB in Indonesia.

Dr. Ina Agustina: Thank you. We appreciate your support in keeping this vital issue in the spotlight.

To learn more about TB and how you can get involved in the fight against this disease, visit the Ministry of Health’s TB website at www.kemkes.go.id/tb.