Equilab International and BPOM Deputy 1 Are Discussing How to Strengthen Indonesia’s Clinical Trial and Bioequivalence Ecosystem

In a significant step toward advancing Indonesia's bioequivalence and clinical trial landscape, dr. William Adi Teja, MD, B.Med., M.Med. -Deputy I for Drug, Narcotics, Psychotropics, Precursors, and Addictive Substances Control at Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makanan (BPOM) Republic of Indonesia-, led a high-level delegation to Equilab International on 10 September 2025. He was accompanied by Dr. Ria Christine Siagian, S.Si., Apt., M.Sc. and Atti Ratnawati, S.Si., Apt., M.Epid, both key figures in BPOM Deputy 1. The visit aimed to foster a collaborative dialogue on the bioavailability/bioequivalence (BA/BE) and clinical trial ecosystem in the country.

During the meeting, Equilab International showcased its extensive capabilities and experience as Indonesia's largest bioavailability/bioequivalence (BE) center and Contract Research Organization (CRO). The discussions highlighted the critical importance of a synergistic relationship between regulators and business players to elevate both the volume and quality of clinical trials conducted nationally. This visit marks a pivotal moment for BPOM and Equilab to work together in enhancing the BE and clinical trial ecosystem in Indonesia.

dr. William Adi Teja elaborated on the necessity of this collaboration. "BPOM, as a regulator, is mandated to ensure the quality, safety, and efficacy of pharmaceutical products. On the other hand, business players directly understand the dynamics on the ground, from operational challenges to global market needs. Therefore, open communication and strategic collaboration between regulators and the industry such as local CRO are crucial. It can collectively create a trustworthy, conducive, and competitive clinical trial ecosystem," he explained.

Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Ronal Simanjuntak, President Director of Equilab International, also underscored the importance of cooperation between the regulator and industry players. "Equilab, as an Indonesian CRO, is very grateful for BPOM's commitment to fostering the improvement of the bioavailability/bioequivalence and clinical trial ecosystem in Indonesia. We sincerely hope that future joint efforts undertaken by Equilab and BPOM, such as facility standardization, strengthen collaboration for all stakeholders, and accelerate the approval and bureaucracy process can significantly increase the trust of foreign sponsors to confidently conduct bioequivalence and phase 1-3 studies in Indonesia," said Mr. Ronal.

This significant visit is part of a broader national effort to align the visions of Indonesian CROs and BPOM. The goal is to position Indonesia as a compelling clinical trial destination by assuring global sponsors of its advanced capabilities, adherence to international standards, and reliable timelines.