Jakarta, Indonesianpost.com – Reported by Antara (December 16, 2024), The National Food and Drug Agency (BPOM) has emphasized that jamu, Indonesia’s traditional herbal drink, is not just a relic of the past but a symbol of the nation’s future in health.
In a virtual event marking National Jamu Day on Sunday, Kashuri, BPOM’s Deputy for Traditional Medicines, Health Supplements, and Cosmetics Supervision, highlighted that jamu embodies local wisdom backed by rigorous scientific research and evidence.
“Jamu is more than just a blend of spices; it is a cultural legacy passed down through generations. Today, more scientific journals are recognizing its significant potential as traditional medicine,” Kashuri remarked.
He stressed the importance of advancing jamu from being merely a subject of research to a competitive product with practical applications.
To achieve this, he called for collaboration across sectors, including partnerships with the Indonesian Medical Association for the Development of Traditional Medicines and Jamu (PDPOTJI), medical professionals, academics, and industry leaders.
“Such cooperation is key to bridging modern medical science with Indonesia’s rich natural resources,” he said.
BPOM, according to Kashuri, remains committed to accelerating clinical trials for jamu through improved policies.
“We don’t just regulate; we also ensure that clinical trials follow the proper standards. Many products fail to reach the market because their clinical trials do not meet the necessary requirements,” he explained.
He also noted that recent legal developments, such as Law No. 17 of 2023 and Government Regulation No. 28 of 2024, have created a legal framework for integrating jamu into Indonesia’s healthcare system.
Kashuri emphasized the importance of incorporating traditional medicine into educational curricula, ensuring that younger generations understand its potential and applications.
“Let’s make jamu a symbol of Indonesia’s health diplomacy on the global stage,” he concluded. (BL)