RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta — Indonesia is seeking to change the way its people think about obesity. Vice Health Minister, Dante Saksono Harbuwono, declared it a chronic disease rather than a matter of appearance as the country confronts a growing diabetes epidemic.

At a launch event for the latest medical innovations at Jakarta on Saturday, July 4, 2026, Vice Minister Dante, said obesity should be managed through evidence-based medical treatment because it is a major driver of chronic illnesses including type 2 diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.

"For years, obesity has been seen as a body image issue. That perspective must change," he said on the occasion. "Obesity is a disease caused by metabolic changes in the body. By reducing obesity, we can prevent complications such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease."

The shift reflects a broader global movement among health experts to recognize obesity as a chronic medical condition rather than solely the result of poor lifestyle choices. Countries worldwide are increasingly adopting comprehensive treatment strategies that combine diet and exercise with medicines and, in some cases, surgery.

Indonesia's Health Ministry conveyed obesity consistently ranks among the five most common health problems identified through the country's nationwide free health screening programme. The ministry argues that changing public perceptions is critical as diabetes becomes one of Indonesia's fastest-growing health challenges.

Dante conveyed that a recent health survey found diabetes prevalence in Jakarta has reached 12.8%, meaning roughly one in eight residents has the disease. Yet only about 3% had previously been diagnosed, while nearly 10% discovered they had diabetes only after participating in health screening because they had experienced no symptoms.

"The biggest concern is that many people are living with diabetes without knowing it," he said.

Dante also cited domestic genetic studies suggesting that many Indonesians carry a genetic predisposition to diabetes, although whether the disease develops depends heavily on lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity and body weight. According to clinical data cited by Dante, long-term success rates for self-managed dieting are only around 5%, while bariatric surgery remains expensive and suitable only for selected patients.

The comments came during the introduction of tirzepatide, a new prescription medicine that mimics two gut hormones involved in regulating appetite and blood sugar. Even as newer medicines become available, lifestyle modification remains the foundation of obesity and diabetes prevention.

"Medication is not a replacement for healthy living," Dante said. "Regular physical activity and a balanced diet remain essential to preventing obesity and reducing the burden of diabetes."