Bekasi, July 23, 2025

Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin emphasized that leprosy is not a curse, but rather a completely curable disease if detected and treated early. However, the persistent social stigma leads many sufferers to hide their condition rather than seek treatment.

"Leprosy is curable. The medicine is available, and it's free. But because of the stigma, people are afraid to report it. They're afraid of being ridiculed or thought to be cursed. Ultimately, it's discovered too late, becomes contagious, and even causes disability," said Health Minister Budi during a visit to strengthen the leprosy elimination program in Serang Baru District, Bekasi Regency, on Wednesday (July 23).

The Minister of Health explained that leprosy is not a highly contagious disease. Close and prolonged contact is required for transmission to occur, unlike diseases like COVID-19.

"Unlike COVID-19, even a small word can spread the virus. Leprosy doesn't; it requires prolonged contact. So don't be afraid to be close to someone with leprosy; as long as they're receiving treatment, it's safe," he explained.

Early detection is crucial, as delayed treatment can lead to permanent nerve damage and even disability. Yet, treatment only takes six months and is readily available and free.

"As soon as a case of leprosy is detected, the immediate family is immediately given a single dose of preventive medication. That's enough to break the chain of transmission," the Minister of Health added.

West Java Governor Dedi Mulyadi, who also attended the event, emphasized that stigma is the main enemy in leprosy management. He highlighted the link between the disease and socioeconomic factors.

"Leprosy often affects the poor. So, in addition to medication, we also provide food. Don't just tell them to eat nutritious food and then deny them. The Regent and I are ready to provide Rp 1 million per month in assistance to families of sufferers, as long as the money is used properly for nutrition," said Governor Dedi.

He also proposed an incentive scheme for health workers who actively accompany patients until they recover.

"We assign one nurse or midwife to assist five patients. They make regular visits. If the patient recovers, I give the nurse a bonus of Rp 10 million. Don't just talk about dedication without giving them recognition," he added. 

Bekasi Regency Regent Ade Kuswara Kunang expressed his commitment to making health a priority for village-based development, including providing sanitation and healthy homes for leprosy patients.

"We want to build Bekasi Regency from the villages. Starting with a clean environment, healthy homes, and precise village data. If the homes of leprosy sufferers are unsuitable, we will help renovate them," Ade explained.

The Head of the Bekasi Regency Health Office, Dr. Alamsyah, revealed that stigma remains a major obstacle in the field. Many sufferers hide their illness for fear of being shunned and considered a disgrace.

"In fact, the treatment is available, free, and very effective," he stressed.

Data as of June 2025 recorded 121 new cases of leprosy in Bekasi Regency, with a Case Detection Rate (CDR) of 3.34. The majority were multibacillary (MB) or wet leprosy. Six cases were found in children, indicating continued active transmission within households.

Alamsyah called the Minister of Health and Governor's visit a crucial opportunity to reverse public perception of leprosy and strengthen cross-sector collaboration.

"This isn't a disgrace. This is an opportunity for Bekasi to prove that we can eliminate leprosy, with cross-sectoral collaboration and support from the central government down to the villages," he said.

The leprosy elimination program in Bekasi Regency now prioritizes a collaborative approach between community health centers (Puskesmas), hospitals, private clinics, village cadres, and is supported by international organizations such as NLR (No Leprosy Relief). This news was broadcast by the Bureau of Communication and Public Information, Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia. For further information, please contact Halo Kemenkes via hotline 1500-567, SMS 081281562620, or email kontak@kemkes.go.id. (D2/SK)

Head of the Bureau of Communication and Public Information

Aji Muhawarman, ST, MKM

source: https://kemkes.go.id/id/menkes-kusta-bukan-kutukan-jangan-takut-lapor