Bio-TB STR Expands Access to TB Diagnostics for the Community and Ensures Product Availability Across Indonesia

Jakarta, Indonesia, October 18, 2024 – Bio Farma, Indonesia's state-owned pharmaceutical and life sciences company, has received regulatory approval from the Ministry of Health for its Bio-TB STR diagnostic device. The approval, granted in October 2024, represents a significant advancement in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) and signals the inaugural phase of collaboration between Bio Farma and BD, a global leader in medical technology. The partnership's objective is to manufacture and distribute TB diagnostic devices locally, thereby enhancing healthcare access across Indonesia.

The Bio-TB STR reagent is a state-of-the-art tool designed for TB sample preparation. When used in conjunction with the BD MAX™ molecular diagnostics platform, it enables laboratories and clinicians to detect TB-causing bacteria while identifying resistance to first-line antibiotics. This dual capability is vital for providing effective care and combating drug-resistant strains.

Bio Farma’s President Director, Shadiq Akasya, emphasized the company’s dedication to achieving the national TB elimination target by 2030.

“This development underscores Bio Farma’s commitment to enhancing Indonesia’s health resilience. The Bio-TB STR reagent improves the accessibility, affordability, and efficiency of TB testing nationwide, supporting the country’s efforts to eliminate TB by 2030,” Shadiq stated.

The BD MAX™ molecular diagnostic platform has been operational in Indonesia since early 2024 as part of the National TB Program, with implementation in 15 provinces.

“This initiative highlights Bio Farma’s capacity for local production, reinforcing the resilience of TB diagnostic supply chains while increasing access to testing,” Shadiq added.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that Indonesia bears the world’s second-highest tuberculosis (TB) burden, with an estimated 1,060,000 new cases and 134,000 deaths each year.

Bio Farma’s initiatives to produce TB diagnostic tools locally and enhance access to testing play a critical role in tackling this pressing public health challenge.