UNAIR NEWS – Indonesia has officially transitioned from the World Health Organization’s South-East Asia Region (SEARO) to the Western Pacific Region (WPRO). This strategic move aims to better equip the country to address a growing range of public health challenges.
Dr. Ernawaty, drg., M.Kes, a lecturer at Universitas Airlangga’s Faculty of Public Health (FKM), welcomed the change, suggesting that Indonesia’s integration into the Western Pacific region could strengthen regional cooperation and improve the nation’s responsiveness to health threats.
“Indonesia’s inclusion in WPRO presents significant benefits, as many countries in this region have more advanced healthcare systems. It allows for stronger collaboration with developed nations and Pacific countries known for their robust health infrastructure, advanced technologies, and evidence-based public health policies,” she explained.
Regional health priorities
Dr. Ernawaty pointed out that WPRO is characterized by a diverse range of health priorities among its member countries. For example, Papua New Guinea continues to focus on infectious disease control such as malaria, while developed nations like Australia concentrate more on non-communicable diseases driven by lifestyle factors, such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.
“These differences highlight a wide range of epidemiological conditions, socioeconomic dynamics, environmental challenges, and policy frameworks. Understanding them will help Indonesia craft more targeted and effective health strategies, while deepening cooperation across the region to address complex health issues,” she said.
One of WPRO’s standout features is its Health Information and Intelligence Platform, which enables real-time health data exchange between member nations. This is in line with Indonesia’s “Satu Sehat” initiative, which is developing an integrated national health data system. The region’s efforts in regulating sugar consumption also stand out.
“The Nutrient Profile Model, for instance, restricts marketing of high-sugar foods to children and promotes transparent nutritional labeling. Countries like Australia and South Korea have adopted such regulations with positive outcomes. Indonesia can leverage these policies to enhance nutritional education and protect younger generations from unhealthy eating habits,” she added.
Strategic direction for Indonesia
Dr. Ernawaty emphasized the importance of analyzing the policy distinctions between SEARO and WPRO to formulate strategies that align with Indonesia’s specific needs. She recommended a comprehensive review of both domestic and regional health issues to identify urgent challenges, including cross-border concerns such as infectious disease and environmental health risks.
“Indonesia’s shift to WPRO opens the door for stronger regional partnerships and elevated health diplomacy. Given the country’s experience in managing pandemics, mass immunization campaigns, and digital healthcare services, Indonesia is well-positioned not only to participate—but also to lead—on key health initiatives in the Asia-Pacific region,” she concluded.
Author: Rifki Sunarsis Ari Adi
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
