“Health is crucial for students because they are Indonesia’s golden generation. That’s why the CKG program has started to be carried out in schools and Islamic boarding schools (pesantren),” he said at the launch of the School CKG program at SMPN 1 Padangan in Bojonegoro district, East Java, on Monday.
He noted that the initiative is one of President Prabowo Subianto’s flagship programs and aims to fulfill the Constitutional mandate to support public healthcare access.
While the health checks are being conducted at schools, students must also adopt a healthy lifestyle by consuming nutritious food and exercising regularly, Pratikno emphasized.
“President Prabowo wants all Indonesian children to be healthy—physically, mentally, and morally,” he said.
He noted that the free health check program, which was launched on February 10, 2025, initially targeted people on their birthdays. It has since expanded to cover the broader population.
“Over 16 million Indonesians have participated in CKG so far. Free health checkups for all citizens are crucial preventive measures to maintain public health,” he said.
He called on local governments, including regents and deputy regents, and community-level stakeholders to actively support public health by providing nutritious food and making sports facilities accessible.
“Regional governments must also promote the importance of reducing stunting, ensuring children eat enough nutritious meals, and ensuring school snacks are healthy—this is vital for Indonesia’s future," he added.
After reviewing the CKG program for students at SMPN 1 Padangan, Pratikno received reports that several students were detected with conditions such as dental problems, vision issues, and elevated blood sugar levels, which are unusual for junior high school age groups.
“This is deeply concerning. Early prevention must begin now by collectively protecting our children’s health, including by providing free nutritious meals,” he said.
Translator: Astrid, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
Copyright © ANTARA 2025
