Thelandofpapua.com – In celebration of its 24th anniversary, the Jayapura Office of the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) organized a series of community-oriented events during the Car Free Day in Jayapura City on Saturday, January 25, 2025.

The commemoration kicked off with a morning walk at 6:00 AM local time, followed by a group exercise session. Afterward, participants and visitors engaged in various free health services, including food product testing, doctor consultations, blood tests, and blood donations.

Hermanto, S.Si, Apt, MPm, the head of the Jayapura BPOM office, emphasized the agency’s commitment to public service through these activities. “This is part of the 24th-anniversary celebration of the National BPOM, officially on January 31. The events include a morning walk, group exercise, free processed food testing using our Rapid Test Kit, and educational sessions about food safety and health,” he stated in a written message to Tribun-Papua.com.

Hermanto also highlighted BPOM’s initiative to provide critical information about drugs and food to the public, encouraging open dialogue about related concerns. “Feel free to ask our staff about any issues regarding medicines and food. Additionally, we are here to assist Papua’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in obtaining distribution permits, allowing their products to reach local, national, and international markets—all free of charge,” he added.

In collaboration with partners like the Jayapura City Red Cross (PMI) and Hamadi Community Health Center (Puskesmas Hamadi), BPOM facilitated voluntary blood donations and free medical consultations during the event.

Hermanto also emphasized the importance of traditional herbal medicine in improving public health. “In line with President Prabowo’s program to promote community health, we are encouraging the consumption of herbal drinks, a valuable part of Indonesia’s heritage. This effort not only preserves tradition but also supports local economic growth,” he explained.

Through this initiative, Hermanto hopes to enhance public health and productivity. “We aim for the community to remain fit and productive in their daily activities. Health is a key to achieving this,” he concluded.

The BPOM Jayapura’s commitment to public health and economic empowerment was evident throughout the event, showcasing their dedication to serving Papua’s communities.