Hypertension Dominates Health Complaints of Travellers, Deputy Health Minister Monitors Preparedness of Gambir Station Post

Deputy Health Minister (Wamenkes) Dante Saksono Harbuwono has revealed that hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the most frequently encountered health case among mudik travellers this year. In addition to hypertension, diabetes and influenza also rank highly on the list of health complaints at monitoring posts. This statement was made by Dante during his inspection of the Health Post at Gambir Station on Wednesday (18/3). He assured that all travellers experiencing health issues would receive immediate medical treatment and free medications on site. Dante highlighted the significant volume of people using rail transport. It is estimated that around 680,000 mudik travellers in Jakarta will use trains, with approximately 63,000 departing via Gambir Station. “If someone falls ill during the journey, it could become a major problem. Therefore, the preparedness of health posts is very important,” said Dante. The health services at Gambir Station are equipped with comprehensive facilities, ranging from general check-ups, blood pressure and blood sugar tests, to dental examinations. The public is urged to utilise waiting times for Free Health Checks (CKG) by simply showing identification or registering online. Besides passenger health, the government is giving serious attention to the physical condition of operational staff. Based on internal data from PT KAI on 277 train crew members (drivers, conductors, attendants, and technicians), varied results were found. Dante stressed that this screening cannot be compromised to ensure travel safety. “This is important because the health of staff, especially drivers and technicians, greatly determines the safety of thousands of mudik travellers,” he asserted. Amid the enthusiasm for mudik, the Deputy Health Minister also warned of the threat of extreme hot weather in Jakarta, which risks triggering heatstroke. He advised travellers to maintain hydration, avoid excessive heat exposure, and use protective measures. “Ensure you drink enough, avoid excessive heat exposure, and use personal protection. For fasting travellers who feel unable to continue, they are permitted to break their fast to maintain stamina and safety,” he added. Finally, he urged mudik travellers to be vigilant against measles symptoms, such as fever and red spots behind the ears. If such symptoms appear, travellers are expected to report immediately and self-isolate to avoid bringing the virus back to their hometowns. These mitigation efforts align with the Minister of Health’s Circular Number HK.02.01/MENKES/163/2026, which instructs the readiness of medical teams and referral facilities at all national mudik hubs.