PGN Eye Screening Programme Finds Many Children Suffering from Untreated Vision Problems

An eye health examination involving 300 students and residents in Jakarta has revealed that many participants suffer from vision impairments that have not received adequate treatment. Some participants were found to have high levels of myopia, while others were using spectacles that no longer suited their current eye conditions.

These findings emerged during an eye examination and free glasses distribution event organised by PT Perusahaan Gas Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk (PGN) through its CAKRA (Health Check for the People) programme, held at the PGN Head Office, Jakarta, on Thursday (4/6/2026).

Results from the examination showed that one student recorded a myopia level of minus 17. Additionally, some participants who previously used minus 1 glasses were found to have progressed to a minus 6 condition.

These findings indicate that access to eye health services remains limited for parts of the community. The costs associated with examinations and the procurement of spectacles are among the factors preventing vision impairments from being addressed promptly.

PGN Corporate Secretary, Fajriyah Usman, stated that the results show many children are experiencing vision impairments that could potentially affect their learning activities.

“From today’s examination results, we see that many children are experiencing quite serious vision impairments but have not received adequate treatment due to financial constraints. This condition can certainly affect their learning process and quality of life. Therefore, we hope that the assistance provided through these glasses will help them study with greater comfort and confidence,” said Fajriyah.

In addition to eye health services, PGN has previously organised basic health screenings across several of the company’s operational areas. The programme has reached 1,610 beneficiaries.

“Through this programme, we hope to help improve public health standards while fostering awareness regarding the importance of regular health check-ups,” added Fajriyah.

The Head of SDN Cideng 7, Ratna Suminar, noted that the activity assists students who have previously struggled to access eye health services due to their families’ economic limitations.

“For some students and parents, eye examinations and the purchase of glasses are not easy tasks as they require significant costs,” said Ratna.

The Head of the Al Mubarok Foundation, Henny Setiyani, assessed that similar programmes are still much needed, as many families do not routinely check their children’s eye health.

“This programme is very helpful because it provides a solution that is directly felt by the students and their families. We see very high enthusiasm from the participants and hope that activities like this can continue so that even more children can be assisted,” said Henny.