Breaking the Chain of Malaria Early: Synergy Between SSR Dekenat Waingapu and PEM Teachers at SD Inpres Marada Mundi

MALARIA PERDHAKI–EAST SUMBA. Concrete steps toward malaria elimination continue to be intensified across the island of Sumba. As part of efforts to accelerate Indonesia’s Malaria-Free 2030 target, SSR Dekenat Waingapu collaborated with Malaria Elimination Mobilizer Teachers (PEM) to hold an interactive discussion for students of SD Inpres Marada Mundi, Kambata Mapambuhang District, on March 3, 2026.

PEM Teachers are a community-based initiative adopted by SSR Dekenat Waingapu. This strategic program integrates health education directly into the school curriculum.

The activity was facilitated by Loda Ana Amah and targeted first- and second-grade students. Loda used interactive digital presentations to introduce children to the morphology of the Anopheles mosquito—the carrier of the malaria parasite.

“Students are expected to become reminders within their own families, especially regarding Clean and Healthy Living Behavior (PHBS) and the routine use of mosquito nets,” said Loda.

Loda also invited the students to take part in group discussions and create simple visual media in the form of educational posters summarizing malaria prevention and transmission.

This activity aimed to strengthen the students’ basic understanding of malaria. It is a long-term investment in building a foundation of collective awareness.

Small steps taken from a classroom in a remote area of East Sumba are an important part of the nation’s larger struggle. Through collaboration between SSR Dekenat Waingapu and SD Inpres Marada Mundi, it is hoped that the chain of malaria transmission in East Sumba can truly be broken. Indonesia Malaria-Free 2030!