RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Food and Drug Monitoring Agency (BPOM) has concluded a working visit to Singapore aimed at strengthening international collaboration and regulatory frameworks. This mission, led by BPOM Head Taruna Ikrar, is a step in supporting domestic health innovation while solidifying Indonesia's standing as a globally recognized regulatory body.

The visit follows Indonesia's achievement of WHO-Listed Authority (WLA) status in December 2025, a prestigious milestone that places BPOM among the world's most trusted regulatory institutions.

"The visit is part of BPOM's efforts to strengthen Indonesia's position as a globally recognized regulatory authority," said Taruna Ikrar in an official statement on Friday, April 24, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

During the mission, BPOM engaged with several high-profile institutions to align strategic priorities and strengthen international cooperation. In a meeting with Executive Director Lim Chien Wei John at CoRE Duke-NUS, both parties discussed strengthening regulatory capacity and enhancing vaccine regulation systems.

Discussions at the Agency for Science, Technology, and Research (A*STAR) focused on research and innovation, specifically regarding Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMP), where BPOM highlighted its proactive stance by preparing a new regulatory framework. The delegation also visited Singapore General Hospital to explore operational standards and clinical research environments.

Taruna Ikrar also served as a guest speaker for a Global Health Public Lecture at the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health at the National University of Singapore, where he presented on elevating Indonesia’s global trust through its status as a WHO-Listed Authority.

A major focus of the visit was the optimization of regulations for Investigational New Drugs (IND), a move designed to accelerate the development of innovative medicines within Indonesia. By fostering cross-border partnerships, BPOM aims to build a more adaptive, transparent, and evidence-based regulatory system.

This bilateral engagement underscores BPOM's commitment to scientific collaboration as a means to address global health challenges while ensuring that Indonesia remains a competitive hub for pharmaceutical and medical innovation. ***