MALARIA PERDHAKI, Jakarta – As part of efforts to accelerate malaria elimination in Eastern Indonesia, the Indonesian Catholic Health Services Association (Perdhaki) continues to promote the strengthening of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems for programs implemented at the community level, particularly those carried out by Sub-Recipients (SRs) and Sub-Sub-Recipients (SSRs) in the field. One key area of focus is the effectiveness of target area mapping and the monitoring of risk factors by malaria cadres on the ground.

Perdhaki’s Malaria Program PME (Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation) Coordinator, Alfrida Abi, emphasized the importance of more intensive monitoring and evaluation of field implementation. According to her, the data collected by malaria cadres plays a crucial role in determining the direction of subsequent interventions in malaria control efforts.

“Eliminating malaria is not just about treatment. A strong, data-driven strategy is needed—and that begins with accurate mapping of target areas conducted by SSRs and community cadres. That’s why we are strengthening the monitoring and evaluation system to ensure the program is truly implemented in line with its objectives,” said Alfrida in Jakarta, on April 14, 2025.

One of the main activities currently being carried out is the creation of village maps, mosquito breeding site maps, as well as mapping household data and monitoring malaria risk factors. These activities are conducted by malaria cadres within their respective assisted areas.

The village map includes the locations of residents’ houses and is combined with environmental maps that potentially serve as mosquito breeding sites. This mapping is not only technical but also serves as the basis for program decision-making at the grassroots level.

In addition, cadres also record the number of households by conducting direct verification visits to residents’ homes. During these visits, they also identify malaria transmission risk factors based on conditions inside and outside the houses.

“This activity helps us understand the real conditions in the field. From the mapping results, we can identify vulnerable areas, and preventive actions can be promptly targeted there,” explained Alfrida.

She also added that the active involvement of the cadres and the accuracy of the data they collect are crucial. Therefore, the PME team, together with local partners, regularly monitors the implementation process in the field to ensure data quality and the sustainability of interventions.

With a data-driven approach and strengthened field monitoring, Perdhaki hopes the malaria program can deliver tangible impact in reducing case numbers and enhancing community health resilience.

This information was compiled by the Public Communication and Publication team of the Perdhaki Malaria Program. It may be quoted by the press. For further information, please contact us.