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.