The Mayor of Medan, Rico Tri Putra Bayu Waas, emphasized the crucial role of pharmacists in supporting successful patient care, particularly by providing the public with a clear understanding of medication use, including its benefits and side effects.

This statement was made during a meeting with the North Sumatra Regional Board of the Indonesian Pharmacists Association (IAI) at his official residence.

He stated that pharmacists do not only function as medication providers but also play a vital part in the health education process. The clarity of information given to the public is considered capable of increasing the safety and effectiveness of treatment.

Furthermore, he highlighted the need to rebuild public trust in domestically produced medicines. He noted that there is still a tendency for the public to seek treatment abroad, such as in Penang, including for purchasing medication.

“This is our shared concern. Whether the issue lies with price or trust. If the public becomes accustomed to buying medicine abroad, then domestic medicines will struggle to compete. This is where the role of the pharmacist is key, including in terms of education and the right approach,” he said.

He also touched on the importance of the price competitiveness of domestic medicines in the face of global competition. He revealed that there are offers of medicine from abroad at cheaper prices, necessitating in-depth discussion regarding regulations, distribution, and the comparison between patented and generic drugs.

In addition, he stressed the importance of coordination between pharmacists and doctors in prescribing medication to patients. Pharmacists, he said, have a role in verifying if there is any doubt about the suitability of a medication for a patient’s condition.

“Pharmacists are determinants of treatment success. Collaboration with doctors must be strengthened, including in ensuring the prescribed medication is truly appropriate,” he stated.

He expressed hope that these various issues could become the main topics of discussion at the 2026 Congress and Annual Scientific Meeting of the Indonesian Pharmacists Association, which is scheduled to be held in Medan.

During the meeting, the IAI North Sumatra board conveyed plans for the congress and scientific meeting scheduled for August 2026 in Medan.

The Mayor conveyed a warm welcome and the full support of the Medan City Government for the hosting of this national event.

“We welcome and support this activity. Medan is ready to be the host. We hope communication and coordination continue to ensure its successful implementation,” he concluded.

Medan

Medan is the capital and largest city of Indonesia’s North Sumatra province, historically developing from a small village into a major economic hub due to the 19th-century tobacco plantation boom led by Dutch colonialists. Today, it is a vibrant, multicultural city known as a gateway to Lake Toba and for its architectural heritage, including the grand Maimun Palace, which was built by the Sultanate of Deli in the late 19th century.

North Sumatra

North Sumatra is a province on the Indonesian island of Sumatra, most famous for being home to Lake Toba—the world’s largest volcanic lake, formed by a super-eruption around 74,000 years ago. The region is a cultural heartland of the Batak people, whose distinct traditions, architecture (notably the boat-shaped *rumah adat*), and Christian faith shape its identity. Historically, it also contained significant pre-colonial kingdoms like Srivijaya and later the Sultanate of Deli, centered in the bustling port city of Medan.

Indonesian Pharmacists Association (IAI)

The Indonesian Pharmacists Association (IAI) is the official professional organization for pharmacists in Indonesia, founded in 1965 to advance the pharmacy profession and public health. It plays a key role in setting professional standards, providing continuing education, and advocating for policies related to pharmaceutical care and drug regulation in the country.

Penang

Penang is a state in northwest Malaysia, renowned for its capital George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its well-preserved colonial architecture and multicultural heritage. Historically, it was established as a British trading post in 1786 by Captain Francis Light, becoming a key port that attracted Chinese, Indian, and other communities, shaping its distinct cultural fusion. Today, it is famous for its vibrant street art, historic temples, and renowned street food scene.

2026 Congress and Annual Scientific Meeting of the Indonesian Pharmacists Association

The 2026 Congress and Annual Scientific Meeting of the Indonesian Pharmacists Association (IAI) is a major professional gathering for pharmacists in Indonesia. It serves as a key platform for continuing education, networking, and discussing advancements in pharmaceutical science and practice, continuing the association’s long-standing role in developing the profession since its founding.