Opinion: Military’s Move into Pharma – Solution or Sovereignty Shortcut?

Tangerang, narasinasi- Indonesia faces a real crisis in healthcare: medicines are notoriously expensive, supply chains fragmented, and rural access remains poor. According to government officials, military-managed labs are set to produce affordable drugs and distribute them directly to village cooperatives at up to 50% below retail price, with the promise of eventual free access to alleviate healthcare burdens. Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and BPOM head Taruna Ikrar highlight this initiative’s potential to curb pharmaceutical “mafia” operations and fill significant market gaps. Mass production is planned to start in October 2025.

But urgency does not justify institutional overreach. Civil society experts and epidemiologists like Dicky Budiman (Griffith University) warn that involving the military in civilian pharmaceutical production lacks both necessity and legitimacy, and may compromise quality assurance and public trust in health governance. 

The defense sector—traditionally tasked with national sovereignty—should only engage in public healthcare during emergencies or humanitarian crises, not as a permanent solution. Without transparent legal frameworks and clear civilian oversight, this project risks repeating the dangers of Indonesia’s authoritarian past and the notorious dual-function era. 

Moreover, Indonesia already has infrastructures capable of handling drug production: BPOM, Kimia Farma, Indofarma, university laboratories, and a vibrant private pharmaceutical sector all exist yet struggle due to import dependency, regulation inefficiencies, and under-investment in local API fabrication. The real challenge lies in transforming these institutions—not bypassing them with military-led alternatives. 

Instead of expanding TNI’s mandate into healthcare, the government should:

• Strengthen civilian pharmaceutical institutions with capital and R&D incentives,

• Reform policies that govern drug pricing and streamline distribution channels,

• Promote competition that drives innovation, not military monopolies,

• Ensure BPOM and health authorities retain full regulatory control.

In short, public health must not become collateral in a battle for power. While the goal of lowering medicine costs is laudable, sustainable, democratic, and civilian-led reform—not military expansion—is the truest path to pharmaceutical sovereignty.

source: ANTARA News, Tempo, The Jakarta Post.

Indonesia Survives Shootout Drama to Reach ASEAN U‑23 Final

 

Tangerang, narasinasi- In a nerve-wracking semifinal at Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno, Indonesia’s U‑23 national team secured a place in the ASEAN U‑23 Championship final, edging Thailand in a dramatic 7–6 penalty shootout after the match ended 1–1 following extra time. The tournament, hosted by Indonesia, continues from July 15 through July 29.

Indonesia conceded first midway through the second half when Thailand’s Yotsakorn Burapha capitalized on a defensive lapse in the 60th minute. However, Indonesia responded heroically—Jens Raven turned provider with a header in the 83rd minute to level the score and send the contest into extra time.

After 120 minutes with no further goals, a high-tension penalty shootout unfolded. Indonesian goalkeeper Muhammad Ardiansyah emerged as the decisive figure, saving attempts from Pichitchai Sienkrathok and Yotsakorn Burapha, securing Indonesia’s progression to the final.

In his post-match remarks, Thailand’s coach Thawatchai Damrong-Ongtrakool acknowledged Indonesia’s superior composure under pressure. "It was a high-quality match," he said, praising both sides for playing in the spirit of fair play.

Indonesia now gears up for the final showdown against two-time defending champions Vietnam, scheduled for July 29 at the same venue. Indonesia aims for a championship return, hoping to break its final appearance drought since 2019.

source: Radar Jogja (Jawa Pos Group)

Over 500 Rescued as Ferry Catches Fire Off North Sulawesi Coast

Tangerang, narasinasi- A horrifying incident unfolded at sea when the KM Barcelona 5 passenger ferry caught fire while en route from Melonguane to Manado, North Sulawesi. The fire broke out near the stern of the vessel, forcing hundreds of passengers to leap into the water in a desperate attempt to survive.

The disaster occurred on the morning of July 20. Initial reports estimated about 280 people were aboard, but the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) later confirmed a total of 575 survivors. The figure includes a two-month-old baby, who was rescued and treated for water inhalation before making a full recovery.

Tragically, three lives were lost, including a pregnant woman. Two passengers are still missing as of this publication. Rescue operations were launched swiftly, with the Indonesian Navy, coast guard units, and local fishermen coordinating efforts to evacuate and treat survivors.

“The fire spread rapidly, and the crew issued immediate evacuation orders,” said an eyewitness survivor. “We had no choice but to jump.” Photos and videos circulating online show thick black smoke billowing from the ship and panicked passengers in life jackets floating in the sea.

Authorities are still investigating the cause of the fire. Transportation Minister Budi Karya Sumadi has ordered a thorough review of ferry safety standards nationwide.

The KM Barcelona 5 is one of the major transport vessels serving the North Sulawesi route. This tragedy has sparked national calls for stricter maritime regulations, better enforcement of safety protocols, and improved emergency response capabilities.

Sources:

• Associated Press (AP) via The Los Angeles Times and others UPI+14AP News+14Al Jazeera+14Dawn+9ABC+9South China Morning Post+9People.com+7AP News+7New York Post+7Dailymotion+9AP News+9AP News+9The Sun+1Dawn+1

• Al Jazeera English Al Jazeera

• CBS News / AP CBS News

• People.com bilurepor

President Prabowo Taps 82 Young Leaders to Drive Indonesia's Future

Tangerang, narasinasi- President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched the Presidential Fellowship in Economics & Business Leadership, a new national initiative aimed at cultivating a new generation of strategic thinkers to shape Indonesia’s economic future.

Under this program, 82 young professionals—handpicked from top Indonesian and international universities—have been appointed to key national roles. The candidates were rigorously screened by the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology based on merit, leadership potential, and innovation capabilities.

The fellowship was formalized in late July 2025, and on its launch day, all participants were invited to a five-hour intensive dialogue session with the President at his private residence in Hambalang, Bogor. Discussions centered on Indonesia’s future in science, technology, global business, and economic strategy.

Presidential staffers confirmed that this initiative forms a cornerstone of Prabowo’s long-term leadership development strategy. By empowering youth with high-level exposure and national responsibility, the government aims to ensure continuity and adaptability in responding to global economic shifts.

“This isn’t just a symbolic appointment—it’s an investment in future governance,” said one senior official. The fellows are expected to begin their strategic roles within various ministries and national agencies in the coming months.

Source: ANTARA News — Prabowo’s vision: 82 young leaders driving Indonesia’s growth

Military at the Pharmacy? TNI to Produce Affordable Medicines Nationwide

Tangerang, narasinasi- Indonesia is poised to embark on an unprecedented healthcare initiative as the military, under the coordination of the Ministry of Defense, prepares to manufacture and distribute affordable medicines to the public. Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin signed a memorandum of understanding in late July 2025, authorizing pharmaceutical laboratories run by the Army, Navy, and Air Force to consolidate into a national defense pharmacy unit and begin mass drug production.

Beginning in October, the armed forces will produce essential medications set to be sold at up to 50% below retail price, with plans underway to eventually distribute them for free through the "Red and White Village Cooperatives" across Indonesia.

According to Minister Sjafrie, the initiative aims to reduce the high cost of medicines in Indonesia and improve access for underserved communities. The consolidated pharmaceutical entity—utilizing TNI laboratories—will support nationwide needs beyond military personnel and distribute via village cooperatives, bypassing conventional commercial channels.

Chief of the Navy, Admiral Muhammad Ali, confirmed that the Navy’s pharmaceutical institute (Lafial) will undergo significant expansion. The Pejompongan lab in Jakarta will be upgraded and enlarged to meet production demands. This expansion is part of broader efforts to leverage military infrastructure for the national pharmaceutical sector.

BPOM (Indonesia’s Food and Drug Supervisory Agency) will closely oversee production quality and safety. Head Taruna Ikrar expressed confidence in the discipline and reliability of military-led facilities, emphasizing BPOM’s role in approving drug licenses and ensuring regulatory compliance.

The plan has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters highlight its potential to reduce illegal drug circulation, curb the influence of pharmaceutical “mafia,” and meet public demand for affordable healthcare. Critics—especially human rights groups—warn that this deepens military involvement in civilian domains, recalls authoritarian-era practices, and risks undermining the civilian pharmaceutical industry.

Mass production is scheduled to begin in October 2025. Officials expect the drugs to reach 80,000 cooperatives across rural Indonesia—delivering critical health benefits at significantly reduced prices.

U.S.–Indonesia Trade Accord Opens Doors for U.S. Goods, Lowers Tariffs

Tangerang, narasinasi- In a landmark agreement finalized in late July 2025, the United States and Indonesia have signed a reciprocal trade deal that is set to redefine the commercial relationship between the two nations. The deal significantly reduces tariffs, dismantles non-tariff barriers, and opens the Indonesian market wide to U.S. exports.

Under the terms of the agreement, Indonesia has committed to eliminating trade barriers on more than 99% of U.S. goods—ranging from agricultural products and pharmaceuticals to industrial machinery, ICT, and automobiles. In exchange, the United States will impose a reduced tariff ceiling of 19% on Indonesian exports, down from the 32% threatened under former U.S. President Donald Trump's "Deadlines Day" trade enforcement policy.

“This is a huge win for American businesses and farmers,” Trump declared in a press statement, praising Indonesia’s willingness to make “unprecedented concessions” in order to avoid higher tariffs.

Indonesia, in return, secured a series of high-value commercial commitments. Among them:

• A procurement of $15 billion in U.S. energy products,

• $4.5 billion in U.S. agricultural imports including soybeans and wheat,

• An order of up to 50 Boeing aircraft, marking a major step in the country’s aviation modernization strategy.

The agreement also includes crucial regulatory reforms. Indonesia will now recognize U.S. vehicle safety and emissions standards, FDA approvals for medical products, and will remove pre-shipment inspection requirements. Furthermore, the country has agreed to support cross-border data flow, digital trade liberalization, and remove local content mandates for American firms.

“This deal not only avoids a tariff war but sets a new gold standard for trade agreements in the region,” said a senior official at Indonesia’s Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs.

According to economic analysts, the deal benefits both nations strategically. American exporters gain access to Southeast Asia’s largest consumer base, while Indonesia secures critical imports and avoids retaliatory tariffs. The agreement is also seen as a diplomatic pivot for Indonesia amid intensifying U.S.–China trade tensions.

Despite the positive outlook, concerns remain. Indonesian SMEs warn that the influx of American products could hurt local producers. Consumer groups have also raised questions about long-term inflation and the implementation of rules of origin under the deal.

Still, both governments hailed the agreement as a model for future bilateral trade pacts. Negotiations are reportedly ongoing to include zero-tariff access for key Indonesian commodities such as palm oil, coffee, and nickel.

This trade deal positions Indonesia as the most favorably treated ASEAN country under current U.S. trade policy—signaling deeper economic ties between Jakarta and Washington for years to come.

Sources:

• Reuters – Indonesia to Cut Tariffs, Non-Tariff Barriers in US Trade Deal

• White House Press Briefing – Fact Sheet on U.S.–Indonesia Trade Agreement

• IDN Financials – Details of Procurement Commitments

• ASEAN Briefing – Analysis on U.S.–Indonesia Trade Framework

Indonesia Becomes First Exporter of Türkiye’s High-Tech Fighter Jet KAAN

Tangerang, 27 July 2025

Indonesia has become the first international buyer of Türkiye’s latest fifth-generation fighter jet, KAAN, marking a historic milestone in defense cooperation between the two nations. The multi-billion-dollar deal involves the purchase of 48 KAAN units, signaling Indonesia’s ambition to modernize its air force with cutting-edge technology.

The agreement was finalized in late July 2025 after months of negotiations and strategic dialogue. The jets will be delivered gradually over the next few years, with a portion of them assembled jointly in Indonesia to strengthen bilateral technological partnerships. This makes Indonesia not only the first export customer of KAAN but also a key participant in the aircraft’s global rollout.

The KAAN jet, developed by Türkiye’s Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), features stealth capabilities, supercruise speed, advanced avionics, and is comparable to the U.S. F-35. The Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) is expected to use these fighters for both air superiority and precision strike missions.

This move is part of President Prabowo Subianto’s defense modernization agenda, aimed at reducing dependency on traditional Western suppliers and diversifying Indonesia’s military assets. Turkish officials have praised Indonesia’s commitment, stating it sets a precedent for broader defense export markets in Southeast Asia.

Experts say this deal will also impact the balance of air power in the region, given Indonesia’s strategic location and growing role in Indo-Pacific security dialogues. Additionally, joint training programs and industrial cooperation are expected to follow the sale.

source: https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/turkiye-inks-landmark-deal-to-export-48-kaan-jets-to-indonesia-211885?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Burning Peatlands in Sumatra Trigger Haze Spread to Malaysia

 Tangerang, 21 July 2025

Thick haze has blanketed parts of Malaysia after massive peatland and forest fires broke out in Riau Province, Sumatra, Indonesia. The fires, which began intensifying in mid-July 2025, have now reached a critical level, prompting cross-border environmental and health concerns.

The fires are believed to have been caused by illegal land-clearing practices, particularly slash-and-burn methods commonly used to prepare land for palm oil plantations. Peatlands, which are highly flammable especially during Indonesia's dry season, have made the situation more difficult to control. Once ignited, peat can smolder underground for weeks, releasing dense smoke and carbon emissions.

Authorities in Indonesia have deployed firefighters to contain the blaze, while environmental agencies continue to monitor the air quality. Meanwhile, the haze has drifted across the Strait of Malacca and into several Malaysian states, including Johor and Malacca. Malaysian officials have issued health advisories, urging residents—especially those with respiratory conditions—to stay indoors and limit outdoor activities.

This incident has reignited criticism toward Indonesia’s recurring forest fire problem, which has impacted neighboring countries almost annually. Environmental groups are calling for stronger enforcement of land-use regulations and more sustainable agricultural practices.

As of late July, air quality levels in both Indonesia and Malaysia have reached unhealthy thresholds in several areas. Regional cooperation is once again being tested as Southeast Asia faces the persistent challenge of transboundary haze pollution.

source, AP News: https://apnews.com/article/indonesia-malaysia-forest-peatland-fires-haze-71e77f2a2ecab1610431343cb99a0f7f?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Pacu Jalur Goes Viral! Riau's Tradition in the International Spotlight

Narasinasi, Tangerang - Riau's unique boat racing tradition, Pacu Jalur, has now gone global. After the video went viral on social media, the world's attention turned to an iconic and unusual moment: a young boy standing at the end of the boat, dancing confidently. This action has been widely referred to by international netizens as “aura farming.” This moment became a turning point that strengthened the global trend of Pacu Jalur. The tradition began to gain global recognition after going viral on social media in 2024, and by 2025, its popularity had grown even further with greater enthusiasm and widespread attention from international netizens.

The popularity of Pacu Jalur this year is closely tied to the unique trend known as “aura farming”—a viral term used to describe someone who appears confident, charismatic, and radiates an aura akin to a main character.

In the context of Pacu Jalur, this trend refers to young boys standing at the front of the boat performing distinctive movements, such as twisting their hands and swaying their bodies to maintain balance as the boat speeds along. This action was captured in a video set to the song “Young Black & Rich” by Melly Mike and went viral on TikTok, capturing the attention of global netizens.

Many content creators from abroad began creating memes and parody videos imitating this “aura paddler” style, making Pacu Jalur increasingly recognized as part of Indonesia's unique, authentic, and expressive culture.

According to Tempo.co, the popularity of Pacu Jalur surged after a video of Rayyab Arkan Dikha—the iconic child dancing at the front of the boat—was uploaded by Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) football club on July 2, 2025. In the video, PSG players imitated Dika's signature style while captioning, “The aura has reached Paris”.

Not only PSG, but Italian club AC Milan also joined the trend by writing “Aura Farming 1899% accuracy,” adding to the trend’s international appeal. Even global celebrities like rapper KSI and NFL star Travis Kelce also posted their own “aura farming” moves inspired by Dika.

Dika was also interviewed directly by American influencer Cullen Honohan, who nicknamed him “The Reaper” due to his charisma while dancing at the end of the boat. When asked how it felt to perform confidently on a speeding boat, Dika simply replied, “Stay brave and confident.”

Higher education, but no direction in life? Quarter Life Crisis is real, bro! Here's what psychologists say about Quarter Life Crisis

Have you heard it said that your 20s are the most exciting time: going to college, starting a job, gaining experience, falling in love, and becoming independent. But underneath it all, there are many who feel even more confused - “What do I really want to be?”, “How come my friends are already successful, while I'm still just like this?”, “Am I on the wrong path?”

If you've ever felt these questions, don't worry, you're not alone. You might be experiencing a Quarter Life Crisis - a phase of identity crisis that is very common in early adulthood.

This phenomenon is not just a youth drama, but a real psychological condition that needs to be understood. To find out more, let's hear [psychologist/resource] explain what Quarter Life Crisis is, why it happens, and how we can deal with it without feeling alone.

Quarter Life Crisis, which is a phase in life where people between the ages of 18 and 30 feel worried, confused, and don't know where to go due to uncertainty about the continuation of their lives and thinking too much about the future.

This is what I, a 22-year-old student who is studying in a field that is not of her own choice, feels.

“I feel insecure, and there is fear regarding my future. Moreover, the study that I am doing now is not my desire, ...” she said.

According to Dr. Andri, SpKJ, a psychiatrist from Omni Alam Sutera Hospital, QLC occurs when a person begins to question the direction of their life and feels left behind by their peers. (source: Kompas, 2023)

This remark refers to a phenomenon known as Quarter-Life Crisis or identity, emotional, and existential crisis that is often experienced by individuals in their 20s to early 30s.

According to Dr. Andri, QLC arises when a person begins to question various important aspects of his or her life, such as- “What do I want to be?”, “Is the major or job I'm taking the right one?”, “Why are other people already settled, while I'm still confused?”

These feelings are usually triggered by comparisons with others, especially peers who seem to be more 'advanced' or successful. For example, when you see your friends already having a steady job, getting married, owning their own business, or studying abroad, while you still feel like you're at a standstill - insecurity, fear of failure, or doubts about your own life choices arise.

The keywords from Dr. Andri's explanation are two main things:

Questioning one's life direction → meaning that one is unsure of one's current life choices, or doesn't know where one wants to go.

Feeling left behind by peers → feelings of inferiority, anxiety, and stress because they feel their life development is not as fast or 'good' as others at the same age.

In psychology, this can have an impact on mental health, with symptoms such as:

• Excessive anxiety
• Mood swing
• Loss of motivation
• Feeling like a failure, although not necessarily a failure.

To get out of the vortex of confusion and feeling left behind, the first step is to get to know yourself. According to experts, this process can start with something as simple as writing down and reflecting on what really matters to us.

“Spending some time journaling or going through a list of values to help you figure out what is most important to you can really help here. Getting some clarity on these things will help you make decisions going forward that align with your true self.”
— Carrie Howard (Verywell Mind, 2023)

Howard emphasizes the importance of self-reflection through journaling or a list of personal values to help individuals understand what is truly important to them. With this clarity, one can make decisions that align with their values and life goals.

So, if you feel like your life is a tangled mess right now - it's okay. Quarter Life Crisis is normal. It's not that you're failing, it's that this phase is real and full of question marks. And most importantly: there's no timeline you have to follow. One small step to get to know yourself today, can be a big step for your future. Slowly, but surely. You're not lost - you're just under construction.

14/05/25

Pendidikan Tinggi, Tapi Bingung Arah Hidup? Quarter Life Crisis Itu Nyata, Bro! Ini Kata Psikolog tentang Quarter Life Crisis

Pernah ga sih denger statement bahwa usia 20-an katanya masa yang paling seru: kuliah, mulai kerja, cari pengalaman, jatuh cinta, dan mulai mandiri. Tapi di balik semua itu, banyak juga yang malah ngerasa makin bingung — “Aku sebenernya mau jadi apa sih?”, “Kok teman-teman udah sukses, sedangkan aku masih gini-gini aja?”, “Apa aku salah jalan?”

Kalau kamu pernah ngerasain pertanyaan-pertanyaan itu, tenang, kamu nggak sendiri. Bisa jadi, kamu lagi mengalami yang namanya Quarter Life Crisis — fase krisis identitas yang umum banget dialami orang di usia awal dewasa.

Fenomena ini bukan sekadar drama anak muda, tapi kondisi psikologis yang nyata dan perlu dipahami. Untuk tahu lebih dalam, yuk simak penjelasan dari [psikolog/narasumber] tentang apa itu Quarter Life Crisis, kenapa bisa terjadi, dan gimana cara kita menghadapinya tanpa merasa sendirian.

Quarter Life Crisis, yang dalam bahasa Indonesia berarti krisis seperempat abad, adalah fase dalam hidup di mana orang-orang berusia antara 18 dan 30 tahun merasa khawatir, bingung, dan tidak tahu ke mana harus pergi karena ketidakpastian tentang kelanjutan hidup mereka dan berpikir terlalu banyak tentang masa depan.

Hal ini seperti yang dirasain oleh I, mahasiswi 22 tahun yang sedang menempuh studi di bidang yang bukan pilihannya sendiri.

“Aku ngerasa insecure, dan ada rasa takut terkait masa depan aku gimana. Apalagi studi yang aku tempuh sekarang bukan keinginan aku, ...” ungkapnya.

Menurut Dr. Andri, SpKJ, seorang psikiater dari RS Omni Alam Sutera, QLC terjadi saat seseorang mulai mempertanyakan arah hidupnya dan merasa tertinggal dari teman sebaya. (sumber: Kompas, 2023)

Ucapan ini merujuk pada fenomena yang dikenal sebagai Quarter-Life Crisis atau krisis identitas, emosi, dan eksistensial yang sering dialami oleh individu usia 20-an hingga awal 30-an.

Menurut Dr. Andri, QLC muncul ketika seseorang mulai mempertanyakan berbagai aspek penting dalam hidupnya, seperti- “Aku mau jadi apa sebenarnya?”, “Apa jurusan atau pekerjaan yang aku ambil ini bener?”, “Kenapa orang lain udah settle, sedangkan aku masih bingung?”

Perasaan-perasaan ini biasanya dipicu oleh perbandingan dengan orang lain, terutama teman sebaya yang terlihat sudah lebih ‘maju’ atau sukses. Misalnya, ketika melihat teman sudah punya pekerjaan tetap, menikah, punya bisnis sendiri, atau kuliah ke luar negeri, sementara diri sendiri masih merasa jalan di tempat — muncullah rasa insecure, takut gagal, atau meragukan pilihan hidup sendiri.

Kata kunci dari penjelasan Dr. Andri adalah dua hal utama:

1. Mempertanyakan arah hidup → artinya seseorang merasa belum yakin dengan pilihan hidupnya sekarang, atau tidak tahu ke mana dia mau melangkah.

2. Merasa tertinggal dari teman sebaya → munculnya perasaan minder, cemas, dan stres karena merasa perkembangan hidupnya tidak secepat atau ‘sebagus’ orang lain di usia yang sama.

Dalam psikologi, ini bisa berdampak pada kesehatan mental, seperti munculnya gejala:

• Cemas berlebih
• Mood swing
• Kehilangan motivasi
• Merasa gagal, walau belum tentu benar-benar gagal.

Untuk bisa keluar dari pusaran kebingungan dan perasaan tertinggal, langkah pertama yang perlu dilakukan adalah mengenal diri sendiri. Menurut para ahli, proses ini bisa dimulai dari hal sederhana, seperti menulis dan merefleksikan apa yang benar-benar penting bagi kita.

"Spending some time journaling or going through a list of values to help you figure out what is most important to you can really help here. Getting some clarity on these things will help you make decisions going forward that ... ."Verywell Mind

Howard menekankan pentingnya refleksi diri melalui jurnal atau daftar nilai-nilai pribadi untuk membantu individu memahami apa yang benar-benar penting bagi mereka. Dengan kejelasan ini, seseorang dapat membuat keputusan yang selaras dengan nilai-nilai dan tujuan hidup mereka.

Jadi, kalau sekarang kamu lagi ngerasa hidup kayak benang kusut — it's okay. Quarter Life Crisis itu wajar. Bukan kamu yang gagal, tapi emang fase ini tuh real dan penuh tanda tanya. Dan yang paling penting: nggak ada timeline hidup yang harus kamu ikutin. Satu langkah kecil buat kenal diri kamu hari ini, bisa jadi pijakan besar buat masa depanmu nanti. Pelan-pelan, tapi pasti. You're not lost — you're just under construction.

14/05/25