Indonesia and Sweden have signed four memorandums of understanding (MoUs) covering key areas of the healthcare sector. 

The agreements were formalized by Indonesian Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin and Swedish Health Minister Acko Ankarberg Johansson during a high-level health forum titled "Advancing Cooperation for a Healthier Future", held at Ayana Midplaza, Jakarta, on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

The four MoUs span a broad range of priorities, namely General health collaboration, Combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR); Establishment of a radiotherapy center and Prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Budi expressed hope that the agreements would serve as a catalyst for improving healthcare services in Indonesia, particularly by encouraging technology transfer and enhancing skills training for nurses and midwives.

“These MoUs reflect our attempt to match Sweden’s advanced medical products and solutions with the needs of the Indonesian people − especially for complex diseases requiring specialized expertise,” Budi said.

Beyond clinical care, the agreements also aim to boost research collaboration, particularly in treating tropical diseases, as well as further studies in lung cancer, diabetes treatments, and early medical screening.

While Budi did not disclose specific financial figures, Acko Ankarberg Johansson reiterated Sweden's commitment to help Indonesia build a resilient, innovative, and inclusive healthcare system, particularly through advancements in digital health and medical technology.

Among the highlights are:

● AstraZeneca and Indonesia's Ministry of Health will partner to enhance NCD prevention and control;

● Essity will work with Indonesia on AMR control, focusing on capacity building and knowledge exchange;

● HemoCue and the Jakarta Provincial Government will launch a community-level anemia screening program emphasizing early detection and timely intervention.

A major development from the forum is the signing of a feasibility study grant for Dharmais Cancer Hospital, worth 9 million Swedish Krona (SEK) (approximately Rp 15.3 billion), funded by Swedfund. The grant aims to expand public access to radiotherapy, where current wait times can stretch to months.

“This support is expected to significantly reduce the long queues for radiotherapy at Dharmais,” Sri Kumala Chandra, Management Consultant at Business Sweden, said.

Additionally, Business Sweden is preparing a funding proposal for the renovation of Fatmawati Hospital in South Jakarta. The plan aims to centralize the currently scattered facilities to improve efficiency, reduce infection risks, and simplify patient access. However, the proposal is still in its early stages and pending review by Indonesia’s Ministry of Finance and Bappenas.

“The project scope will determine the amount of financial support needed,” Kumala cited.