MP urges BPOM to expand oversight to digital space

Public desire for quick results is often exploited by unscrupulous producers who mix in chemicals to make products seem effective. Jakarta (ANTARA) - Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives’ Commission IX, Netty Prasetiyani, has urged the National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) to expand its oversight to the digital realm to prevent the distribution of dangerous medicines, such as natural-based drugs containing hazardous chemical substances. According to Netty, quoted in Jakarta on Thursday, such hazardous products are currently frequently circulated on digital platforms and social media. “Oversight must be extended to the digital space because many such products are marketed online without adequate controls,” she said. This was stated by Netty in response to BPOM’s findings regarding 24 natural-based drug (OBA) products proven to contain dangerous drug chemical ingredients (BKO). The findings came from BPOM’s monitoring of 1,858 samples of herbal products, quasi-medicines, and health supplements during the period from January to February 2026. “Products that should be based on natural ingredients are instead mixed with potent chemical drugs. This is very dangerous because they are consumed without medical supervision,” she stated. Furthermore, she explained that the use of substances such as sildenafil, steroids, and sibutramine in herbal products can cause serious health risks, ranging from heart disorders to organ damage. According to Netty, the prevalence of products claiming instant effects is one factor exploited by irresponsible producers. “Public desire for quick results is often exploited by rogue producers by adding chemicals to make the products feel effective,” she said. In addition, she stressed the importance of public education so that people are more critical in choosing health products. “The public needs to be educated that products promising instant effects should be suspected. This awareness is important to protect oneself from health risks,” she said. Netty also encouraged strict action against producers and distributors of illegal products to create a deterrent effect. “Law enforcement must be carried out consistently so that there is no room for perpetrators who endanger public health,” she stated. She hopes that synergy between BPOM, related ministries, and law enforcement agencies can be further strengthened to ensure the safety of products circulating in society.