Batang Regency Government Confirms Reinstatement of Universal Health Coverage Programme
The Batang Regency Government, Central Java, has ensured the reactivation of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) programme status starting from the final quarter of 2026, following a period of suspension.
Speaking in Batang on Sunday, the Regent of Batang, Faiz Kurniawan, stated that the public is guaranteed to regain access to healthcare facilities free of charge by merely presenting their National Identity Card (KTP).
“We will begin the UHC implementation by the end of 2026. The community can once again enjoy free medical services using their local KTP,” he said.
According to the Regent, this free medical scheme is projected to become active in October or November 2026, depending on the readiness of the regional fiscal allocation to support public health insurance financing.
He noted that the restoration of the UHC programme status is being carried out alongside the restructuring of regional development priorities through the 2026 Revised Regional Budget (APBD-P).
“Even though the regional fiscal space is under deficit pressure, the local government remains optimistic that priorities for basic health services and public infrastructure can still be realised sustainably,” he added.
The Batang Regency Government noted a shift and adjustment in regional expenditure, which has increased by 3.3 per cent, or an additional Rp62.31 billion, bringing the total projected regional expenditure to Rp1.95 trillion.
“A significant increase is visible in the capital expenditure item, which has surged by 54.18 per cent, or an increase of Rp84.64 billion from the initial ceiling of Rp156.21 billion to Rp240.85 billion,” he said.
He explained that the surge in capital expenditure is specifically allocated for the acceleration of physical infrastructure development, particularly for road and irrigation improvements.
“In this 2026 Revised Regional Budget, we are proposing almost Rp50 billion for roads. Several areas prioritised for this transport infrastructure work include access routes in Juragan, Depok, Bakalan, Limpung, and Kalangsono,” he concluded.