Undermining Health Regulations in Indonesia: A Case Study on Safeguarding Addictive Substances in Health Law and Draft Government Regulation

Book Introduction

“Undermining Health Regulations in Indonesia: A Case Study on Safeguarding Addictive Substances Articles in Health Law and Draft Government Regulation” provides an in-depth analysis of the challenges faced in formulating and enforcing health regulations in Indonesia, with a specific focus on addictive substances. Authored by Mouhamad Bigwanto, Lisda Sundari, Umniyati Kowi, Rama Tantra, and Mohammad Ainul Maruf, and supported by contributors Effie Herdi, Aghnina Wahdini, and Agung Suryana, this book uncovers the complex tactics employed by the tobacco industry and its allies to weaken public health policies.

In this comprehensive case study, the authors meticulously document how the tobacco industry has strategically influenced both the Health Law and the Draft Government Regulation on Health in Indonesia. By analyzing industry tactics, including spreading misinformation, mobilizing various interest groups, and leveraging political and religious connections, the book reveals the pervasive interference that hampers the effective implementation of health laws aimed at controlling addictive substances.

The narrative is supported by a detailed timeline of industry interference, providing readers with a clear understanding of the systematic efforts to undermine health regulations. Additionally, the book highlights the broader impact of these interferences on public health policy and suggests potential measures to safeguard health regulations from such influences in the future.

Through evidence-based research and critical analysis, this book serves as a vital resource for policymakers, public health advocates, and researchers. It emphasizes the need for stricter guidelines to prevent conflicts of interest and protect the integrity of public health policies against the vested interests of powerful industries. Published by Ruang Kebijakan Kesehatan Indonesia (RUKKI) and Yayasan Lentera Anak, this work is a crucial contribution to the ongoing efforts to prioritize public health over industry profits in Indonesia.

Undermining Health Regulations in Indonesia: A Case Study on Safeguarding Addictive Substances Articles in Health Law and Draft Government Regulation

Authors:

• Mouhamad Bigwanto
• Lisda Sundari
• Umniyati Kowi
• Rama Tantra
• Mohammad Ainul Maruf

Contributors:

• Effie Herdi
• Aghnina Wahdini
• Agung Suryana

Cover Design:

• Ridwan Kamil

Acknowledgements: We extend our gratitude to Dr. Widyastuti Soerojo and Dr. Mary Assunta for their assistance during the writing of this report. We also thank our partners, the Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA) and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK). The contents of this report are the sole responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of these partners.

Suggested Citations: Bigwanto, M., Sundari, L., Kowi, U., Tantra, R., Maruf, MA. (2024). Undermining Health Regulations in Indonesia: A Case Study on Safeguarding Addictive Substances Articles in Health Law and Draft Government Regulation. Jakarta: Ruang Kebijakan Kesehatan Indonesia and Yayasan Lentera Anak.

Published by: Ruang Kebijakan Kesehatan Indonesia (RUKKI) and Yayasan Lentera Anak, May 2024.