Prabowo Requests BRIN to Develop Low-Cost Tools for Drug Addiction Detection

The Head of BRIN, Arif Satria, stated that President Prabowo Subianto is placing significant emphasis on efforts to combat and eradicate drugs. Prabowo has requested that BRIN conduct studies and innovate low-cost tools to detect drug addiction.

“Clearly, the President has a very strong commitment to saving future generations. Therefore, we have been asked to strengthen research and innovation related to efforts to protect the generations to come,” said Arif at the Presidential Palace complex, Jakarta, on Tuesday (23/09/2026).

Prabowo has also requested that BRIN expand and strengthen rehabilitation centres and methods. Additionally, BRIN has been tasked with contributing to the development of drug addiction detection technologies.

“Secondly, we have also been asked to conduct studies regarding affordable detection tools that can subsequently be used for prevention purposes,” he added.

Arif further noted that the use of vapes has become a new threat regarding drug circulation, echoing sentiments expressed by the Head of the National Narcotics Board (BNN), Suyudi Ario Seto. According to medical tests conducted by BRIN, vaping impacts user health, specifically regarding diabetes, lung, and pancreas issues.

“However, vapes also serve as a loophole that can be exploited for drug distribution. Therefore, I believe this must be properly anticipated. Consequently, the Head of BNN and the Ministry of Health will regulate this matter,” he said.

On the same occasion, the Head of BRIN’s Health Research Organisation, Ni Luh Putu Indi Dharmayanti, stated that the drug addiction detection tools being studied by BRIN will be developed down to the genomic level. The genome represents the complete information or genetic material possessed by a cell or organism.

“Yes, we will develop detection capabilities up to the genomic level for addiction. Furthermore, once an individual has completed their rehabilitation, we will also provide such detection tools at the genomic level,” she added.