Indonesia to implement sweeping Tobacco Control Measures

Jakarta, Indonesia – 2026/01/27 21:09:46 – Indonesia’s Minister of Health, Budi Gunadi Sadikin, announced a thorough plan to bolster national tobacco control efforts through notable legislative changes. the proposed reforms target both reducing the supply of and demand for tobacco products, addressing a major public health concern within the nation.

Speaking at the 8th Asia-pacific Cities Alliance for Health and Progress (APCAT) Summit in Jakarta, Minister Sadikin detailed the planned revisions. These include expanding the size and impact of graphic health warnings on tobacco packaging,implementing stricter regulations on tobacco advertising,prohibiting the sale of loose cigarettes (also known as kretek),and establishing regulations for e-cigarettes.

The move comes as Indonesia grapples with a ample tobacco-related health burden. Minister Sadikin revealed that tobacco use is the third-leading cause of death in the contry, with approximately 70 million adults currently smoking. Alarmingly, 9.1% of Indonesian children have already experimented with smoking, highlighting the need for preventative measures.

Beyond legislative changes, the government intends to broaden smoke-free zones across public spaces and enhance access to smoking cessation services at community health centers.Health officials stressed the importance of collaborative, cross-sectoral approaches and community engagement to effectively combat tobacco use and mitigate the rise of non-communicable diseases linked to smoking.

The proposed reforms signal a strong commitment from the Indonesian government to prioritize public health and reduce the devastating impact of tobacco on its population. Successful implementation will require coordinated partnerships and sustained efforts across multiple sectors.