Health Ministry Responds to Death of Intern Doctor in Lampung

The Indonesian Ministry of Health has issued an official response following the death of a doctor participating in the Indonesian Doctor Internship Programme (PIDI), Dr. Muhammad Zulfikar Drakel, MRes, in Lampung. The ministry conveyed its deepest condolences and paid tribute to his dedication during the programme.

The young doctor, an alumnus of the University of Indonesia’s Faculty of Medicine, passed away on Monday, 21 July 2026, whilst carrying out his duties at Sukadana Regional General Hospital in East Lampung Regency. His death adds to the list of young health workers who have died this year, drawing sympathy from professional organisations, medical education institutions, and the government.

Through a post on its official Instagram account, the Ministry of Health expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Dr. M Zulfikar Drakel, MRes, who was registered as a participant in the February 2026 cohort of the internship programme. ‘There is a devotion that may end, but sincerity will always be remembered. With deep sorrow, the Ministry of Health extends its condolences on the passing of Dr. Muhammad Zulfikar Drakel, MRes,’ the statement read.

In the post, the ministry also offered prayers for the deceased and expressed hope that the bereaved family would be granted strength during their time of grief. ‘Thank you for dedicating your knowledge and heart to serving others. May the deceased be granted the best place by His side, and may the family left behind be given strength and sincerity. Farewell, Doctor. Your legacy of service will forever live on in the hope for a healthier Indonesia,’ the statement continued.

Dr. M Zulfikar Drakel was found deceased in a room at the Sakinah Guest House on Jalan Imam Bonjol, Metro Pusat District, Metro City, Lampung, on Tuesday, 21 July 2026, at approximately 7 p.m. local time. The discovery was reported to the police, who immediately launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of death of the doctor undergoing the internship programme. The incident sparked various speculations among the public, including allegations that the deceased had been subjected to excessive work pressure or had been a victim of bullying during his assignment.