Papua, Province with the Lowest National Malaria Elimination Rate in 2023

The Ministry of Health (Kemenkes) reports that 76%, or 389 regencies/cities throughout Indonesia, were malaria-free in 2023.

Papua had the lowest national malaria elimination rate at 0%. Consequently, it also recorded the highest number of malaria cases, totaling 163,962 in 2023.

Following Papua, West Papua achieved an 8% malaria elimination rate. This was followed by Maluku (27%), East Nusa Tenggara (41%), and Central Sulawesi (46%). The remaining data is included in the graph.

The provinces declared 100% malaria-free in 2023 were DKI Jakarta, West Java, Yogyakarta Special Region, East Java, Banten, Bali, Riau, and Bengkulu.

This year, Kemenkes targets 405 regencies/cities to achieve 100% malaria elimination. As of May 2024, 396 regencies/cities have been declared malaria-free.

"Challenges remain until the end of the year. We hope to encourage regencies/cities that have not yet achieved elimination to reach malaria elimination as soon as possible," said Hellen Dewi Prameswari, Acting Director of Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases at Kemenkes, in an online press conference on Monday (27/5/2024).

In an effort to achieve the malaria elimination target, Kemenkes is implementing several strategies, such as improving early detection through epidemiological investigations, providing integrated vector control such as insecticide-treated nets, and developing a malaria vaccine.

"We are also strengthening the empowerment and increased role of the private sector and the community, interpersonal communication for behavioral change, and advocacy for increased regional commitment," said Hellen.