Each year on November 12, Indonesia celebrates National Health Day (HKN), an important moment to acknowledge achievements and address challenges in the health sector. In 2024, HKN marks its 60th anniversary, with the theme chosen by the Ministry of Health: “Move Together, Be Healthy Together.” This theme highlights the importance of collaboration between the government, society, and the private sector in creating an environment that supports the health and well-being of all Indonesians.
The theme “Move Together, Be Healthy Together” represents a commitment to fostering a healthy society collectively. “Move Together” calls on all parties to take active steps and participate in creating a healthy lifestyle, while “Be Healthy Together” implies the expected outcome: a healthier, fitter, and stronger society.
One of the primary goals of the 60th HKN is to enhance preventive and promotive efforts to prevent diseases. This approach emphasizes preventing illness through a healthy lifestyle, such as consuming nutritious food, exercising regularly, maintaining environmental cleanliness, and utilizing basic health services. Additionally, the Ministry of Health continues to work on reducing the rates of communicable and non-communicable diseases, which remain health challenges in Indonesia.
To create a healthy society, solid cooperation between various sectors, including the government, private sector, educational institutions, and the wider community, is needed. The government has launched various programs, such as Posyandu for maternal and child health, Germas (Community Movement for a Healthy Life), and vaccination campaigns. Meanwhile, the private sector can play a role by providing health education in workplaces or supporting local health programs.
In addition, the community is expected to actively engage by maintaining the health of themselves and their families, for example, by adopting regular exercise habits and reducing the consumption of unhealthy foods. This cross-sector synergy is expected to bring about real change in improving the health and welfare of the nation.
Despite significant progress, Indonesia still faces various health challenges, such as stunting in children, rising cases of non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension, and the threat of infectious diseases that still need attention. The lack of awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle also remains a challenge that needs to be addressed through continuous education and health campaigns.
National Health Day is not just ceremonial; it serves as a reminder for every individual of the importance of maintaining their health. The public is encouraged to be more proactive in taking care of their health and utilizing available health facilities, such as community health centers (Puskesmas) and other basic health services. Additionally, the importance of a healthy lifestyle and disease prevention needs to be instilled continuously to create a healthy and productive generation.
As it reaches its 60th year, National Health Day with the theme “Move Together, Be Healthy Together” becomes a call for collective commitment in creating a health-supporting environment. With the spirit of unity, it is hoped that all components of society can work together to build a healthier and stronger Indonesia, moving toward the nation’s goals of prosperity and quality of life.
