Jakarta (ANTARA) - Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said Indonesia’s 61st National Health Day serves as a reminder to renew public commitment and optimism in driving health transformation, especially through preventive and promotive measures.
Speaking in Jakarta on Wednesday, Sadikin said the government’s free health screening program (CKG) is one of the flagship initiatives supporting that goal.
The 61st National Health Day was observed under the theme “Healthy Generation for a Great Future.”
He noted that of Indonesia’s roughly 280 million people, about 240 million to 250 million are healthy, while the rest suffer from various illnesses. However, he said, the country’s health system often focuses more on treating the sick than protecting the healthy.
“The healthy must be protected so they don’t fall ill,” Sadikin said, adding that illness reduces productivity and increases personal spending on medicine and hospital care.
He said the keys to a healthy life are simple: maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough rest, exercising regularly, and cultivating a positive mindset.
The minister also observed that many adults lack physical activity, leading to obesity, which can cause hypertension and high blood sugar. He said he and his two deputy ministers aim to set an example by keeping a healthy weight.
Sadikin urged the public to undergo regular health checkups, ideally once or twice a year.
He also stressed the importance of mental well-being, urging people to manage stress, recognize personal limits, and practice mindfulness.
“Don’t overthink problems that feel too difficult. And don’t forget to pray or meditate — it helps maintain mental balance,” he said.
Deputy Health Minister Dante Saksono Harbuwono said the impact of the CKG program may not be immediately visible but will bring long-term benefits.
He explained that many participants who appeared healthy were found to have undiagnosed conditions such as diabetes, adding that early detection allows timely treatment.
Indonesia marks Health Day with focus on prevention, wellness
Rabu, 12 November 2025 16:37 WIB
A doctor from Sebelas Maret University examines the health of neglected elderly residents at Griya PMI before a donut-decorating workshop in Solo, Central Java, Wednesday (Nov. 12, 2025). The event was held to mark National Health Day. ANTARAFOTO/Maulana Surya/nym. (ANTARA FOTO/Maulana Surya)
