Indonesia’s Health Partnerships with USAID Temporarily Paused

Indonesia's collaborative health programs with the US Agency for International Development (USAID) face a temporary pause, as announced by Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin. Despite the hold, Sadikin clarified that these projects have not been terminated. USAID has significantly contributed to Indonesia's health sector, investing approximately US$800 million since 2020. The US Embassy in Jakarta confirmed this figure, underscoring the agency's substantial involvement in combating critical health issues such as HIV and tuberculosis (TB) in the region.

The partnerships have been pivotal, especially as Indonesia battles rising TB cases, which have surged to over 1 million estimated cases in 2023 from around 820,000 in 2020. Tuberculosis, along with HIV, has been identified as the leading cause of infectious disease-related deaths globally this year. In a bid to counteract these health challenges, Indonesia plans to roll out a nationwide free health screening program starting February 10, with a budget allocation of approximately 3 trillion rupiah (US$184 million). The initiative aims to screen up to 220 million citizens within the year.

"That is on hold. Not stopped." – Budi Gunadi Sadikin

The impact of USAID's temporary pause could be profound for Indonesia. Olivia Herlinda, a health analyst, highlighted the significance of USAID's support across various health issues in Indonesia, including maternal and child health, TB, HIV, and pandemic preparedness. The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, another vital partner for Indonesia that counts Washington as its largest donor, continues to supply necessary drugs for these diseases.

"The impact is huge because USAID supports many health issues in Indonesia, including maternal and child health, TB, HIV, and pandemic preparedness." – Olivia Herlinda

The potential restructuring of USAID into the State Department further complicates the situation. This proposed merger is part of a broader strategic revamp by the United States government, which may influence the continuity and management of international aid programs.