Ibas Emphasises the Importance of Mutual Assistance in the National Health Insurance System for SME Operators
During the BPJS Kesehatan Recess Point activities for 2026, Vice Chair of Indonesia’s People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR RI) Edhie Baskoro Yudhoyono (Ibas) has emphasised the importance of strengthening the spirit of mutual assistance (gotong royong) within the national health insurance system, particularly for SME operators.
In his remarks, Ibas stated that Ramadan is a month that teaches the values of faith, compassion, and mutual assistance. According to Ibas, these values are reflected in the National Health Insurance (JKN) system managed by BPJS Kesehatan.
“BPJS is a tangible manifestation of national mutual assistance. The healthy help the sick, the strong support the weak,” said Ibas in a statement on Saturday (28 February 2026).
Currently, more than 260 million Indonesians are registered as BPJS Kesehatan participants, making it one of the world’s largest health insurance systems.
Nevertheless, challenges persist, particularly concerning awareness of timely premium payments, understanding of programme benefits, and protection for informal sector workers. Special attention has been given to SME operators, particularly Lebaran cake entrepreneurs who serve as drivers of grassroots economic activity.
These enterprises are considered vital in creating employment opportunities, preserving traditions, and driving the wheels of the national economy. However, many SME operators remain without optimal health insurance protection.
“SMEs are small candles that illuminate Indonesia. BPJS is the protector of their light,” Ibas stressed.
Ibas emphasised that future solutions lie in synergy and collaboration between government, BPJS, communities, and business operators. Outreach must be strengthened, registration processes must be simplified, and collective awareness for disciplined premium payments must continue to be developed.
According to him, health is not a burden but an investment. In the spirit of Ramadan, which teaches patience, compassion, and brotherhood, he called on all parties to ensure that no SME operator fears seeking medical treatment and no family falls into poverty due to illness.
Ibas also stressed that this spirit of mutual assistance aligns with national values in the Four Pillars of the MPR RI, which emphasise the importance of social justice for all Indonesians.
Concluding his remarks, Ibas expressed optimism that through mutual assistance, Indonesia will become healthier, SMEs stronger, and the people more prosperous.
“Ramadan strengthens faith and nation. Healthy, secure, empowered,” said Ibas.