Central Jakarta Mayor Intensifies Campaign to Curb Tramadol Circulation

Central Jakarta Mayor Arifin is intensifying a campaign to prevent the circulation of potent prescription drugs, including tramadol, through educational initiatives aimed at curbing substance abuse within the community. He stated that the campaign is a follow-up to a cross-sectoral coordination meeting involving the City Leadership Coordination Forum (Forkopimko), the Central Jakarta Metro Police, the Military District Command, the Prosecutor’s Office, the State Intelligence Agency (BINDA), the Centre for Food and Drug Monitoring (BBPOM), as well as religious and community leaders. “We will make a joint declaration with all community leaders to make the Tanah Abang area free from the circulation of illegal drugs, including tramadol, similar substances, and psychotropics,” Arifin said in Jakarta on Tuesday. According to him, the campaign will be conducted massively by disseminating information about the health impacts and legal consequences of abusing tramadol and similar drugs circulating without a doctor’s prescription. The education drive, he noted, will not only target the general public but also the educational sector through information sessions in schools. “This campaign will also be carried out in residential areas. We invite all parties to protect themselves, their families, and the environment from the abuse of these drugs,” Arifin stated. He further explained that public concern regarding the over-the-counter sale of tramadol is a shared priority for all elements of Forkopimko. Consequently, the government, together with law enforcement and various community organisations, is strengthening synergy to eradicate the distribution of potent prescription drugs that do not comply with regulations. Arifin expressed hope that this cross-sectoral commitment will create a safer environment while reducing the abuse of potent drugs in Central Jakarta, particularly in the Tanah Abang area. “Together with Forkopimko, we continue to seek solutions to eradicate the circulation of prohibited drugs. All cross-sectoral organisations share the same commitment to protect Tanah Abang from the circulation of illegal drugs,” Arifin asserted.