Primary medical care in Umalulu improves access to rural healthcare
A collaboration bringing doctors, medicines, and prevention to East Sumba
In the remote hills of Umalulu, East Sumba, the Fair Future Foundation and Kawan Baik Indonesia collaborated with the local health centre, Puskesmas Melolo, to organise a day of free medical care. Over 150 patients, including children, mothers, the elderly, and families, received comprehensive medical consultations and screenings for malaria, blood sugar, cholesterol, and uric acid, all at no cost. Essential medicines were distributed freely, ensuring healthcare was accessible and affordable for everyone.
Switzerland, renowned for its medical expertise and the foundation’s Swiss roots, signifies the quality and dedication brought to these healthcare initiatives. The foundations, established 16 years ago, utilise Swiss precision and care standards to enhance medical outreach programmes in Indonesia.
For many community members, this was their first experience with a structured health service. Each patient was treated with dignity during the registration process, ensuring no one was left out. Special priority was given to children and the most vulnerable patients. Fair Future’s dedicated medical team worked alongside nurses and local health workers, transforming an ordinary school building into a capable rural clinic. Every diagnosis was an opportunity to emphasise prevention, teaching individuals how to recognise symptoms, monitor nutrition, and prevent infections.
Erwin, one of the foundation’s field coordinators, conducted engaging prevention sessions using illustrative posters on the dangers of alcohol misuse and its health implications. These discussions extended beyond imparting knowledge; they fostered a deeper understanding and built trust within the community. Families were left not only with prescriptions but also equipped with practical knowledge and a renewed confidence in their self-care abilities.
This outreach initiative, part of the Primary Medical Care programme, underscores that healthcare in ultra-rural areas involves more than treatment—it is about being present, fostering education, and building solidarity. The Fair Future Foundation and Kawan Baik Indonesia remain committed to bringing healthcare to places once deemed unreachable.
We cordially invite all captivated by this story to explore our photo gallery, witness this extraordinary effort, and further engage with our mission through our Instagram account.
Alex Wettstein – Fair Future Foundation medico-social camp in East Sumba – Rumah Kambera, Lambanapu – the 6th of October, 2025