Immunisation Coverage in Sorong City, Southwest Papua, Remains Low

The Sorong City Government is facing a significant challenge in boosting childhood immunisation coverage. According to the latest data, immunisation achievements in the region remain far below the national target, requiring serious handling through cross-sector synergy.

In response to this situation, the Sorong City Health Office held a Coordination Meeting for the Bersatu Lengkapi Imunisasi Anak (BERLIAN) Working Group at Vega Hotel & Convention on Friday (5/6/2026). The activity aimed to strengthen the implementation of Sorong Mayor Regulation Number 10 of 2025 concerning the Organisation of Immunisation.

Sorong City Health Office Secretary Maria Ohoitimur asserted that immunisation is a basic right of every child that must be fulfilled. According to her, immunisation is the most effective health intervention to prevent Vaccine-Preventable Diseases.

“The success of the immunisation programme is not solely the responsibility of the health sector, but requires the support of all elements of society to ensure every child receives immunisation on schedule,” Maria said in her address.

The implementation of the BERLIAN Movement is based on a strong legal framework, from the 1945 Constitution to Law Number 17 of 2023 concerning Health. At the local level, Sorong Mayor Regulation Number 10 of 2025 serves as the operational foundation regulating the roles of health facilities, medical personnel, educational units, and families.

During the meeting, it was explained that the immunisation programme is divided into two main categories. The low achievement rate, which by May 2026 had only reached a range of 21-23 per cent, serves as an alarm for the BERLIAN Working Group. Through this coordination, it is hoped that Regional Apparatus Organisations and professional health organisations can collaborate more intensively to expand service access and increase parental awareness in Sorong City.