Kendari, 23 April 2026 – PT Kalbe Farma Tbk (Kalbe), in collaboration with the Leprindo Academy of Optician Refraction (ARO Leprindo), has expanded access to eye care services for the community in Kendari, South-East Sulawesi. This initiative forms part of Kalbe’s support for the Indonesian Air Force’s Semarak Dirgantara programme, and coincides with the 62nd anniversary of South-East Sulawesi Province.
The programme includes the provision of free spectacles for students of Sekolah Rakyat SMRP 25 Kendari.
“This marks the first social initiative held in celebration of Kalbe’s 60th anniversary, beginning with eye examinations and the distribution of free spectacles,” said SFD Arie Wibowo, Corporate Sustainability Assistant Manager at Kalbe.
Visual impairment, particularly due to refractive errors, remains a widespread issue. Data from Indonesia’s Ministry of Health estimates that approximately 3.6 million Indonesian children experience visual impairment caused by refractive errors. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that around 19 million children aged 5–15 suffer from visual impairment, with 12.8 million cases attributed to uncorrected refractive errors. The increasing use of digital devices further exacerbates this condition, raising the risk of myopia from an early age and increasing the need for corrective eyewear among students.
Colonel Nav Edi Mintarso, M.Han., Head of Paban III/Tahwil Sterau, stated that this social initiative reflects the Indonesian Air Force’s tangible support for government programmes in achieving the vision of Golden Indonesia 2045.
“We hope that today’s efforts will bring meaningful benefits and contribute positively to the future of our younger generation,” he said.
He added that good vision is essential for children to fully engage in the learning process. With healthy eyesight, students are better positioned to continue their education without disruption.
“Our consideration is to ensure these children can continue their schooling and ultimately receive proper education for their future,” he concluded.
On the same occasion, Head of LPPM ARO Leprindo, Fetrix Livanos, emphasised the importance of early detection and treatment of visual impairment.
“Through these preventive measures, we hope visual impairments can be identified early and managed effectively,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Kalbe’s Head of Corporate Sustainability, Abi Nisaka, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to strengthening sustainability through strategic collaboration with multiple stakeholders.
“As part of Kalbe’s commitment to ‘Uniting for a Healthier Nation’, we continue to expand collaborations with academia, government and communities through various programmes aimed at improving quality of life,” Abi remarked.
To date, a total of 40 pairs of spectacles have been distributed—benefiting 21 students and 19 teachers and members of the general public. This initiative is expected to support recipients in their daily activities, particularly in teaching and learning processes.