Plan to Build an International Hospital on Sumber Waras Land Gains Momentum
Jakarta’s health and city leadership are aligning behind a bold initiative: transforming the land of the former Sumber Waras Hospital into an international hospital. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin expressed strong support for Governor Pramono Anung’s proposal, signaling a united front from the central and provincial governments to elevate Jakarta’s healthcare standards and curb outflows of patients seeking care overseas.
Why This Move Matters for Jakarta and Indonesia
The proposed project is framed as meeting President Prabowo Subianto’s directive to deliver high-quality hospitals capable of serving a diverse patient base, including wealthy Jakartans who currently travel abroad for specialized care. Minister Budi emphasized the need for a hospital with international-standard doctors and facilities, arguing that such a center could reduce the incentive for residents to seek treatment overseas.
“Let’s build a quality hospital,” Budi stated after a meeting with Governor Pramono at the Ministry of Health in Jakarta on Tuesday, October 28, 2025. He added that the hospital’s quality must be matched by a robust cadre of healthcare professionals trained to international standards.
Financing and Operational Plans under Discussion
During the discussion, several financing options were considered for the international hospital project. While Budi did not disclose specific funding details, he underscored the importance of securing sustainable financial models to ensure the hospital’s long-term viability. The government also talked through the human resources needed to operate an institution of international caliber, including the recruitment and retention of doctors and support staff who meet global benchmarks.
Site Readiness and Strategic Location
Governor Pramono Anung announced that around 3.6 hectares of land at the Sumber Waras site have been set aside for the project. He argued that the location is strategically placed near other private hospitals, which could create a synergistic healthcare corridor in West Jakarta. The site’s proximity to existing medical facilities is seen as an advantage for patient referrals, training opportunities, and potential collaborations.
Two Paths, One Goal: National or Local Leadership
Pramono presented two pathways for advancing the plan. First, turning Sumber Waras Hospital into a National Strategic Project (PSN) could attract central government support and resources. Second, Jakarta could proceed with independently developing the facility as an international hospital, with central government assistance in procuring essential equipment. In both scenarios, the governor stressed the need for coordinated national and regional efforts, including technical input from the Ministry of Health.
Context: Graft Probe and Asset Management
The timing of the proposal follows developments related to the past handling of Sumber Waras assets. The Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) had previously halted an investigation into the recovery and utilization of lands held by the Sumber Waras Health Foundation, citing insufficient evidence. Officials say the land is under Jakarta Provincial Government ownership, and its redevelopment could unlock significant health infrastructure, not just for the capital but for the wider nation.
What to Watch Next
Key questions remain as discussions continue: What funding model will ensure project sustainability? How will the hospital recruit and train staff to international standards? What regulations and approvals will central authorities require to classify the project as a national strategic asset or to enable direct investment in equipment and technology? Officials have signaled that coordination with the central government will be essential to align policy, financing, and procurement.
Implications for Healthcare Access
If realized, the international hospital could become a cornerstone of Indonesia’s medical tourism and domestic healthcare resilience. By offering world-class services within Jakarta, the project has the potential to reduce outbound medical travel, boost local employment, and raise overall hospital standards across the city and country.
As plans progress, residents and stakeholders will be watching how the project navigates governance, funding, and clinical excellence to deliver on its promise of a high-quality, internationally capable hospital on the Sumber Waras land.
