Boost Clinical Trial Collaboration and Capacity: Chairperson of Indonesian FDA Received Equilab International, KoNECT, and Korean Pharmaceutical Companies Representatives

13 hours ago

2 min read

On 10 September 2026, the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM) received a delegation from the Korea National Enterprise for Clinical Trials (KoNECT), Equilab International, and South Korean pharmaceutical companies. Welcomed by BPOM Chairperson – Prof. dr. Taruna Ikrar, M.Biomed., Ph.D., alongside Deputy I for Drug, Narcotics, Psychotropics, Precursors, and Addictive Substances Control – Dr. William Adi Teja, MD., BMed., MMed., and Director of Drug Registration – Dra. Tri Asti Isnariani, Apt, M.Pharm., the meeting focused on strategies to enhance the clinical trial ecosystem in Indonesia. Key discussions centered on establishing framework synergies for Multi-Regional Clinical Trials (MRCTs), regulatory benchmarking, joint training initiatives, and strengthening health sector research through collaboration among academia, business, and government.

Four officials in batik and suits sit at a conference table, one speaking into a microphone; a Wetties box and papers are on the table.

BPOM opened the session by welcoming the South Korean delegation and highlighting the importance of cross-border partnerships in health research infrastructure. Prof. Taruna emphasized that multi-sector collaboration between Academia, Business, and Government (ABG) networks is essential to elevate the health sector. Addressing regulatory alignment, Prof. Taruna highlighted, "As WHO-Listed Authorities, BPOM and MFDS are in discussions to establish mutual regulatory reliance. This framework simplifies both Investigational New Drug (IND) and New Drug Application (NDA) processes, establishing a clear pathway for innovative therapies. And this discussion marks important step toward stronger Indonesia-Korea cooperation in clinical research and innovative health products."

Large group of officials posing in a conference hall, pointing at the camera; screen reads Equilab International & KoNECT South Korea, Visit BPOM RI

During the session, BPOM leadership outlined operational updates designed to optimize trial timelines and expand local capacity. Dr. William emphasized the importance of targeted human resource training in clinical research, ensuring that trial sites and regulatory teams maintain high standards of compliance across both nations. Dra. Tri Asti highlighted BPOM's commitment to fast-tracking IND and NDA approval pathways, strengthening site oversight through inspections to expand trial-ready capacity, and improving overall site quality.

Demonstrating the readiness of Indonesian clinical infrastructure to support international studies, Mr. Ronal Simanjuntak, President Director of Equilab International, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to supporting global pharmaceutical sponsors. Mr. Ronal stated, “As Indonesia’s clinical trial ecosystem continues to advance, the country is becoming a highly attractive destination for global clinical trials. Equilab supports this growth as a reliable CRO partner, providing end-to-end operational management and regulatory support for complex trials. Having recently secured three new Clinical Trial Approvals (PPUK) for South Korean and Australian sponsors, Equilab reaffirms its capacity to execute international studies locally. As the first and largest CRO in Indonesia, Equilab International connects global sponsors to clinical trial execution in Indonesia. With extensive experience in global studies, good relationship with BPOM, investigator networks, and proactive risk management, Equilab works to ensure study timelines remain tightly on track with good quality.”

Delegates from South Korea highlighted that Indonesia represents a key market and strategic partner for South Korean clinical development. Addressing what international sponsors require to succeed, Indonesian clinical trial expert Prof. Raymond R. Tjandrawinata, Ph.D., M.Sc., M.B.A., FRSPH, pointed out that timeline adherence, regulatory certainty, and high study quality are critical for multi-regional studies. Prof. Raymond highlighted, Indonesia already delivers better clinical trial quality, backed by a research ecosystem that has achieved substantial progress. He closed his remarks by appreciating that Equilab has been a reliable partner to support and boost the clinical trial ecosystem in Indonesia.

International meeting in a bright conference room, people seated around U-shaped tables facing a screen on clinical trials.

Through this dialogue, all stakeholders reaffirmed their collective commitment to advancing Indonesia's clinical trial ecosystem and positioning Indonesia to host global-scale clinical trials.