Aceh Government Clarifies JKA Policy After Student Protest

BANDA ACEH | INDATANEWS.COM – Aceh Regional Secretary M. Nasir met directly with a group of students protesting at the Aceh Governor's Office lobby on Monday (May 4, 2026). The demonstrators, identifying themselves as the "Aceh People's Alliance," voiced concerns over Governor Regulation No. 2/2026 on Aceh Health Insurance (JKA).

The students presented a number of demands, mainly focusing on the implementation of the new JKA policy, particularly regarding access to healthcare services and potential administrative barriers at the local level.

Government Engages in Direct Dialogue with Protesters

Following the students' speeches, M. Nasir, accompanied by several assistants, senior officials, and the Aceh Government spokesperson, addressed the crowd. He outlined the key points of the Governor Regulation No. 2/2026 and sought to ease public concerns surrounding the policy.

In his remarks, Nasir urged the public to allow the government time to implement the regulation before making judgments.

"We ask the public to give the government time to implement this regulation. Only after it has been applied in practice can we determine whether adjustments or evaluations are necessary," Nasir stated before the demonstrators.

Initial Evaluation Shows Stable Healthcare Services

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the protest, Nasir noted that the JKA regulation had only been in effect for four days. During this period, the government has continuously monitored and evaluated its implementation, particularly in several hospitals.

"Based on initial evaluations in most hospitals, no issues have been found in admitting patients. This indicates that healthcare services are continuing to function properly," he said.

Nasir added that residents in Aceh currently have access to multiple healthcare financing schemes, including the National Health Insurance (JKN), the regional JKA program, and private payment options.

Government Ensures Protection of Citizens' Rights

Nasir reaffirmed the government's commitment to maintaining uninterrupted healthcare services without limiting citizens' rights, especially for low-income communities. He acknowledged ongoing efforts to improve data accuracy to better target beneficiaries.

However, he stressed that no underprivileged citizen would be denied access to medical care.

The protest concluded peacefully under the supervision of security personnel. The government expressed hope that the dialogue would foster mutual understanding regarding the implementation of healthcare policies in Aceh. (IDNC)

REPORTER: Adli Safwan | EDITOR: Fik Sagala