Synergy between the Ministry of Population and Family Development and BPOM: Prevent Teenagers from Using Sedatives

The Minister of Finance/Head of BKKBN, Dr. Wihaji, S.Ag, M.Pd., held a direct audience with the Head of BPOM, Prof. dr. Taruna Ikrar, M. Biomed., PhD., at the BPOM Office on Tuesday, April 28. (IST)

JAKARTA - The phenomenon of the abuse of tranquilizers among teenagers as a "shortcut" to overcome mental health problems is increasingly worrying. In response to this, the Ministry of Population and Family Development (Kemendukbangga/BKKBN) officially collaborated with the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) to tighten supervision and education.

The Minister of Finance/Head of BKKBN, Dr. Wihaji, S.Ag, M.Pd., held a direct audience with the Head of BPOM, Prof. dr. Taruna Ikrar, M. Biomed., PhD., at the BPOM Office on Tuesday (28/04/2026). This meeting is a concrete step to follow up on the results of the Coordination Meeting of the Health Sector Policy Committee (KKSK) related to adolescent mental health management.

Indonesian Youth Mental Health Emergency

Minister Wihaji explained the worrying data regarding the psychological condition of today's young generation. Referring to the data of Indonesia - National Adolescent Mental Health Survey (I-NAMHS) in 2022, as many as 15.5 million adolescents (34.9%) experience mental health problems.

"Reports from our field extension workers show that trends in SMP and SMA children consume tranquilizers to overcome psychological stress. If left unchecked, this is a fatal risk ranging from severe depression to suicide," said Minister Wihaji.

He emphasized that massive education is very necessary so that teenagers understand the dangers of using drugs without medical supervision as a solution to mental problems.

Tighten the Supervision of Drug Distribution

In response to this, the Head of BPOM Taruna Ikrar emphasized his commitment to fully support this prevention effort. According to him, this is in line with the BPOM's tupoksi in regulating the distribution, production, and distribution of certain drugs.

Early Prevention: Prioritizing education and prevention before abuse occurs. Strict Supervision: Ensuring the distribution of tranquilizers does not leak into the illegal market or be misused. Vision of Gold Indonesia 2045: Preparing a healthy physical and mental generation.

"It is better to prevent and deter than to take action when problems occur. This is our investment towards Indonesia Emas 2045," said Taruna Ikrar.

Real Action: Cooperation Agreement & Trauma Healing

As a follow-up, the two institutions will soon sign a technical cooperation agreement that focuses on preventing drug abuse among adolescents.

On the sidelines of the audience, Minister Wihaji also expressed his deep condolences over the train accident at Bekasi Timur Station which occurred on Monday (27/04/2026). He expressed the readiness of the Ministry of Finance to provide psychosocial support.

"We are ready to facilitate trauma healing or consultation for the victim's family. That is part of our obligation in maintaining family resilience," he concluded.