Health Minister Condemns Unsri PPDS Bullying Case

Indonesia Suspends Medical Residency Program Amid Systemic Bullying Crisis

Indonesia’s Ministry of Health is taking decisive action to address a growing crisis of bullying within its specialist medical education programs, known as PPDS. The Ministry recently suspended the ophthalmology residency program at Sriwijaya University, operating out of Mohammad Hoesin Hospital (RSHS) in Palembang, following reports of severe harassment and a suicide attempt by a junior resident.

the escalating situation underscores a systemic problem that officials say demands immediate and comprehensive intervention. A senior official stated that the Ministry had already addressed similar incidents at Diponegoro University (UNDIP) and is steadfast to eradicate the practice of junior doctors being subjected to abuse.

Did you know? – PPDS programs in Indonesia are highly competitive, with aspiring specialists undergoing rigorous training under the supervision of senior doctors. The hierarchical structure can sadly foster abusive dynamics.

Mounting Evidence of Systemic Abuse

The Ministry of Health revealed that the bullying extends beyond mere harassment, encompassing financial extortion to fund the lavish lifestyles of senior residents. According to the Minister of Health, speaking to detikcom on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, in Depok, West Java, the amount of money demanded from junior doctors can reach billions of rupiah annually.

“Usually (extortion) is used for various things. For senior entertainment, to buy petrol, if you want to have facilities for events, he pays for it,” the Minister of Health explained. “it’s not appropriate, and it can cost billions per year.”

The Ministry’s response to the crisis has been swift and firm. The temporary suspension of the Unsri eye study program at RSHS is intended to facilitate a thorough examination and implement corrective measures. “So our procedure is that because this has happened systemically, we will stop the study program first.We ask that it be corrected so that this doesn’t happen again. Then, there must be a commitment from the medical faculty and hospital to ensure that these practices don’t happen,” the Minister of Health emphasized.

Pro tip – Reporting bullying is crucial. Indonesian medical institutions are urged to establish confidential reporting mechanisms and protect whistleblowers to encourage victims to come forward.

Escalating Penalties for Perpetrators

The Ministry is signaling a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, with penalties ranging from administrative sanctions to criminal charges in the most severe cases. “If someone at UNDIP dies, it becomes a crime. In this case, we will give administrative sanctions,” the Minister of Health stressed.

The Ministry of Higher Education is collaborating with the Ministry of Health to address the root causes of the problem and prevent future occurrences. Officials have repeatedly stated that such behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

watch a video released by the Ministry of health detailing punishments, including delayed graduation, for perpetrators of bullying at Unsri PPDS: Gambas:video 20detik

The unfolding crisis raises serious questions about the culture within Indonesian medical education and the well-being of its future doctors. the ministry of Health’s decisive action represents a critical step towards creating a safer and more supportive learning environment for all PPDS participants.

Reader question – What systemic changes within Indonesian medical schools could best prevent bullying and foster a more supportive learning environment for residents? Share your thoughts.