East Kalimantan Maps High-Malaria Zones to Speed Up Elimination

The East Kalimantan Provincial Health Office is intensifying its efforts to combat malaria by mapping high-endemic areas. This strategic move aims to accelerate the province's malaria elimination program, focusing on regions still experiencing local transmission.

Jaya Mualimin, head of the Provincial Health Office, emphasized the critical role of regular mapping in directing medical interventions. As of the second quarter of 2026, Penajam Paser Utara and Kutai Timur districts reported the highest number of local malaria cases. Cumulatively, East Kalimantan had registered 408 malaria cases by mid-2026. Despite this, most districts and cities in the province have seen a decline in cases over the past three years.

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Although most districts and cities have generally seen a decrease in case numbers over the last three years, surveillance at the region's entry points remains maximized.

"Although most districts and cities have generally seen a decrease in case numbers over the last three years, surveillance at the region's entry points remains maximized," Jaya stated. The province is also vigilant about imported malaria cases, particularly in urban areas like Balikpapan and Samarinda, which have seen significant increases. Balikpapan's cases rose from 68 in 2025 to 115, while Samarinda saw an increase from 11 to 57, largely attributed to personnel returning from Papua.

"Intensive health screening for arrivals from outside the region is being tightened to prevent new transmission chains," Jaya asserted. The development of the Nusantara Capital City (IKN) in Sepaku is also under consideration due to potential environmental changes affecting mosquito populations. However, Jaya believes that the transformation of forest areas into planned green urban spaces might help reduce malaria-carrying mosquito populations. The provincial government aims to fully eliminate malaria before 2030 by integrating medical services across 188 community health centers and strengthening field surveillance, alongside inter-agency coordination and public education.

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Intensive health screening for arrivals from outside the region is being tightened to prevent new transmission chains.