Jakarta, December 7, 2024 – A number of young people from across ASEAN countries and Japan gathered at Yayasan Pelita Ilmu, not just to engage in discussion, but to take part directly in concrete health-related action.
This activity was part of the ASEAN – Japan Youth Forum: Take Action for Social Change (TASC) 2024, an exchange program organized by the Japan Foundation in collaboration with the ASEAN University Network. With the theme “Good Health and Well-being,” the program aims to create real impact in society through community-based approaches.
As a partner in this program, the Angsamerah Foundation (Yayasan Anak Bangsa Merajut Harapan) held a Mobile Voluntary Counseling and Testing (VCT) session, along with health screenings (Uric Acid, Cholesterol, and Blood Sugar) for the communities supported by Yayasan Pelita Ilmu. This initiative was part of Angsamerah POS, funded on this occasion by the Japan Foundation and Angsamerah Foundation.
Getting to Know Angsamerah
Before heading to the field, participants first received an introduction to Angsamerah as a provider of health services based on the Public Private Community Partnership (PPCP) model. This model enables high-quality healthcare delivery through an inclusive, community-based approach.
Participants were also introduced to the Community-Based Testing Model, an initiative developed by Angsamerah since 2019 to reach vulnerable groups that often face barriers in accessing healthcare services. Through this model, healthcare is provided not only at medical facilities but also directly in communities via mobile clinics and partnership networks.
During the discussion session, ASEAN – Japan Youth Forum participants eagerly raised questions such as:
- How does the HIV patient care system work in Indonesia?
- What is the prevalence of HIV in Indonesia?
- How can stigma against HIV be addressed, especially in a Muslim-majority society?
- How can the public access Angsamerah’s pharmacy services?
- Which groups are at the highest risk of HIV in Indonesia?
- How does Angsamerah ensure the sustainability of its programs?
In this session, Dr. Rachmat Puziyanto, Project Manager of Angsamerah POS, and Klara Rebbeca Wea, a nurse/midwife, shared insights on the various challenges and solutions within Indonesia’s healthcare system. They emphasized the importance of educational approaches and community engagement in reducing stigma around HIV/AIDS.
Mobile VCT and Health Screenings
After the discussion, participants were invited to join the field activities, which included Mobile VCT and health screenings. The ASEAN – Japan Youth Forum participants did not merely observe—they actively engaged in the process of patient anamnesis and blood collection, under the guidance of Angsamerah’s medical team.
One participant, a medical student from Malaysia, shared:
“I gained a meaningful experience in addressing HIV-related stigma through a community-based approach.”
This collaboration not only provided valuable insights for the participants but also strengthened Angsamerah’s commitment to expanding community-based services. The hope is that this model will continue to grow and be replicated in other regions, ensuring that more people gain access to inclusive, stigma-free healthcare services.
