Strengthening multi-disease elimination and cross-border collaboration: Indonesia and Timor-Leste’s collaborative approach in eliminating malaria and lymphatic filariasis

From 11 to 14 February 2025, a joint capacity building workshop on malaria and lymphatic filariasis (LF) elimination was held in Kupang, Indonesia, marking a significant step towards a multi-disease elimination approach in the WHO South-East Asia Region. The workshop, organized through a strong collaboration between the three levels of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministries of Health of Indonesia and Timor-Leste, brought together 52 participants, including programme managers, laboratory experts, and health professionals from both countries. With a focus on integrated interventions, the workshop reinforced the importance of cross-border cooperation and data harmonization to address persistent challenges in eliminating these diseases.

Timor Island presents a unique epidemiological setting where malaria and LF remain public health concerns. While Timor-Leste has successfully eliminated LF as a public health problem, continued post-elimination surveillance remains critical, especially in high-mobility border areas. Meanwhile, Indonesia continues to work towards LF elimination while strengthening malaria control measures. Recognizing the overlap in disease control strategies—such as vector control, surveillance, and case detection—the workshop promoted an integrated approach to optimize resources, enhance impact, and ensure sustainable progress. The training sessions provided practical guidance on strengthening entomological surveillance, improving case management, and enhancing data-driven decision-making for both diseases.

Participants and facilitators actively engage in a roleplay exercise during the Indonesia and Timor-Leste Joint Capacity Building Workshop on Malaria and Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination, held in Kupang, 11–14 February 2025. The interactive session aimed to enhance understanding of disease transmission dynamics and guide decision-making on effective intervention strategies. Photo Credit: WHO Indonesia/Agrin Zauyani Putri

A key outcome of the workshop was the commitment of both countries to strengthening joint surveillance, implementing targeted vector control strategies in high-risk areas, and expanding national capacity through a cascade training approach within each country. Furthermore, by fostering strong bilateral collaboration and aligning their efforts with WHO’s global elimination targets, Indonesia and Timor-Leste are establishing a best-practice model for multi-disease elimination. This initiative underscores the critical role of coordinated, cross-border action in overcoming persistent challenges, accelerating disease elimination efforts, and ensuring long-term health improvements for affected communities.

This workshop serves as a testament to the power of partnership in tackling neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and vector-borne diseases simultaneously. As both countries move forward, continued investment in integrated health interventions and capacity-building efforts will be crucial to ensuring the sustainability of elimination programmes, ultimately contributing to broader regional and global health goals.

Participants actively engage in a group discussion during the Indonesia and Timor-Leste Joint Capacity Building Workshop on Malaria and Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination, held in Kupang, 11–14 February 2025. The interactive session aimed to enhance understanding of disease transmission dynamics and guide decision-making on effective intervention strategies. Photo Credit: WHO Indonesia/Agrin Zauyani Putri