maritimeposts.com/ – The cool morning air of Canberra welcomed health officials from Indonesia and Australia at Gulgana Building, Fairbairn.
In a warm yet dignified atmosphere, a historic moment unfolded: the launch of the Inaugural Internship Program and Regulatory Cooperation between Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and Indonesia’s National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM).
The event, held on Monday (August 25, 2025), was attended by senior Australian officials, including Professor Anthony Lawler, Deputy Secretary and Head of TGA, as well as representatives from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). Representing Indonesia, BPOM Head Prof. Taruna Ikrar delivered a message that was simple but deeply meaningful.
“Today marks an important milestone in our long journey of cooperation,” he said.
More Than Just an Internship
According to Prof. Taruna, the internship program is not merely about technical training. It symbolizes a shared vision to strengthen regulatory science and public health systems across the Indo-Pacific.
“This program is a natural continuation of our collaboration journey. From technical workshops, joint trainings, to continuous dialogue under the framework of the Indo-Pacific Regulatory Strengthening Program,” he explained.
Six mid-career BPOM professionals will gain first-hand experience working within TGA. Their training will go beyond theory, immersing them in day-to-day regulatory activities ranging from pharmacovigilance and marketing authorisation to strengthening regulatory systems.
Meeting the Challenges of Health Innovation
Prof. Taruna stressed that the world is at a crossroads of health innovation. From biologics, vaccines, cell and gene therapies, to AI-powered medical devices—regulatory authorities must become more agile, competent, and interconnected.
“This is why programs like this are so crucial. In the face of global health challenges, both routine and emergency, strong networks of trust can make a real difference,” he said.
For him, the program’s success will not only be measured by technical skills, but also by cross-cultural learning, professional networking, and building mutual trust between BPOM and TGA. “Learn, collaborate, and bring home the valuable insights that will enrich our regulatory practice in Indonesia,” he urged the participants.
Laying the Foundations of Indo-Pacific Solidarity
Prof. Taruna also expressed his appreciation to TGA and the Regulatory Strengthening Program team for their unwavering support, hospitality, and professionalism in designing the program. He emphasized that such an initiative is the result of a shared strategic vision and the dedication of senior leaders from both agencies.
In his closing remarks, he called on all parties to reaffirm their collective commitment: to strengthen regulatory cooperation, build regional solidarity, and safeguard public health.
“The challenges we face are indeed complex. But through partnership, mutual respect, and continuous learning, we can make a greater impact—together,” he concluded.
This inaugural internship may be just the first step, but it carries tremendous hope—that BPOM Indonesia and TGA Australia can become pivotal drivers of health regulatory strengthening in the Indo-Pacific, a region whose future will be defined by the quality of its health systems.
And behind it all, one powerful message from Prof. Taruna Ikrar resonates: regulatory science is not only about rules—it is about protecting lives and the future of humanity.
Source: BPOM
Written by maritimeposts.com/