BISNISTIME.COM, JAKARTA – Wednesday January 15,2025- Indonesia is facing a critical shortage of veterinary surgeons, hindering its efforts to improve food security and nutrition, especially among children. The country’s Vice Minister of Transmigration, Viva Yoga Mauladi, has emphasized the importance of involving veterinarians in the government’s free nutritious food program.
Currently, Indonesia has only 13,500 registered veterinarians, far below the estimated 50,000 needed to adequately meet the country’s demands. This shortage is attributed to the limited number of veterinary faculties in Indonesian universities.
“The struggle to meet the demand for veterinarians is a significant challenge,” said Mauladi during the 72nd anniversary of the Indonesian Veterinary Association. “We need to increase the number of veterinary schools and encourage more students to pursue this profession.”
To address this issue, the Indonesian government is pushing for the passage of a new law on veterinary education and services. This legislation aims to increase the number of veterinary graduates and improve the quality of veterinary care in the country.
Veterinarians play a vital role in ensuring the health and productivity of livestock, which is a primary source of protein for many Indonesians. By involving veterinarians in the free nutritious food program, the government hopes to improve the quality of animal products and increase access to affordable, nutritious food.
“Veterinarians are essential partners in our efforts to achieve food security and improve the nutritional status of our population,” said Mauladi. “By working together, we can build a healthier and more sustainable future for Indonesia.”
