Governor Herman Deru Calls on Doctors to Support South Sumatra Health Tourism 2026
Governor of South Sumatra, Dr. H. Herman Deru, urged doctors to prepare and support the South Sumatra Health Tourism program aimed for 2026. He made this statement during the send-off ceremony of IDI Run Palembang 2025, a 5-kilometer charity event held on November 9, 2025, at the South Sumatra Provincial DPRD building.
The event attracted approximately 1,100 participants and commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Indonesian Doctors Association (Ikatan Dokter Indonesia/IDI). Governor Deru, accompanied by DPD RI member Dr. Ratu Tenny Leriva HD, emphasized the strategic role of health professionals in elevating the province as a competitive health tourism destination.
Positioning South Sumatra as a Health Tourism Hub
The South Sumatra Health Tourism 2026 initiative targets transforming the province into a prime destination for both domestic and international patients. Governor Deru pointed to neighboring countries achieving recognition in health tourism despite having fewer healthcare workers. He stressed that success depends not only on quantity but also on system readiness and courage to build sustainable healthcare structures.
He clearly stated, "We see neighboring countries becoming health destinations even though their number of healthcare workers is not greater than ours. It’s not only about capability but about courage to develop the system. Therefore, I invite the IDI and all health workers to prepare themselves."
Improving Healthcare Services and Insurance Systems
Governor Deru stressed urgent improvements in healthcare services and the insurance framework. According to him, medical personnel and facilities in South Sumatra have performed at their best, but systemic challenges, especially administrative hurdles related to insurance, still obstruct smooth medical care.
He warned, "Doctors and facilities are ready. We must ensure that services aren’t disrupted because of insurance administration. A comprehensive and structured reform is necessary."
Acknowledging Medical Professionals’ Contributions
The governor expressed appreciation for the organizing committee, the IDI, and young doctors participating in the event. The 75th anniversary of IDI marks a long-standing dedication of the medical profession to public welfare in South Sumatra.
While acknowledging that the number of doctors in the province remains below ideal levels, Herman Deru praised the quality of physicians who maintain high service standards throughout health facilities.
He remarked, "Although the number of doctors is inadequate for the region’s needs, the quality of our doctors is reliable, which keeps healthcare services running well in South Sumatra."
Shift Toward Preventive and Promotive Healthcare
Governor Deru highlighted the importance of doctors not only focusing on curative care but also strengthening preventive and promotional health strategies. He believes that educating the public on healthy lifestyles reduces disease risks early on and promotes better community health awareness.
Community Engagement Through IDI Run
Dr. Abla Ghani, representative of IDI Palembang, thanked the public’s enthusiastic participation in the IDI Run. He explained that the run was part of a wider series of events celebrating IDI’s 75th anniversary, which included health services, scientific activities, and public health education programs.
"Sports is everyone’s right, and IDI will continuously encourage society to adopt a healthy lifestyle," said Dr. Ghani. "This event aims to bring joy, health awareness, and closer relations between doctors and the community."
The event also coincided with National Health Day in November, reinforcing its significance as a platform for health promotion. The IDI Run Palembang 2025 successfully demonstrated the collaborative spirit between healthcare providers and the public, advancing the culture of wellness in South Sumatra.
This call by Governor Deru indicates a proactive step toward positioning South Sumatra as a notable health tourism destination by 2026. With strategic system reforms, enhanced service delivery, and a solid network of engaged doctors, the province aims to overcome current challenges and capture growing health tourism opportunities that could contribute substantially to the local economy.
