Health Ministry: Blockade at Jayapura Central Hospital Disrupts Public Access to Services

The Ministry of Health has expressed deep concern over a blockade at the Jayapura Central Public Hospital (RSUP) in Papua, carried out by a number of individuals since earlier this week. Director General of Health Services Azhar Jaya stressed that the hospital is a vital facility that must remain accessible to the public under all circumstances. “We are very concerned about the blockade at RSUP Jayapura. The hospital is a place where people place their hopes for healthcare. We hope this action remains peaceful, not anarchic, and does not obstruct people’s right to seek treatment,” Azhar said on Saturday (20/6). He added that the blockade, which closes off access to the hospital, could potentially endanger patient safety, particularly for those requiring emergency treatment. “We urge all parties to prioritise dialogue. No patient should be delayed in receiving care simply because access to the hospital is closed. Patient safety is the top priority,” he emphasised. Although the blockade has been in place at the main entrance since Wednesday (17/6), hospital management has ensured that patient services continue. Patient and staff access has been redirected through a second entrance, with several adjustments made to maintain the safety of patients, families, and healthcare workers. According to the latest reports, the Emergency Department, Inpatient, and Outpatient services remain operational. Two patients are being treated in the Emergency Department, 33 in Inpatient wards, and six in the Intensive Care Unit. Afternoon shift staff also remain on standby to serve patients. RSUP Jayapura management continues to coordinate with security forces, including the Jayapura City Police, Abepura Police Sector, Korem, and the Cenderawasih University Rectorate, to anticipate the situation. The hospital has also issued a preparedness circular for all employees and provided updates to the public through official social media channels. The blockade is reportedly linked to aspirations and demands from the local indigenous community regarding the clarity of the land status used for the construction of RSUP Jayapura. The Ministry of Health hopes the issue can be resolved promptly through consultation with relevant parties, without sacrificing the rights of the Papuan people to receive proper healthcare. “We believe that through good dialogue, this issue can find common ground. The most important thing is that healthcare services for the people of Papua must not be interrupted,” he concluded.