Agung Suganda, director general of the ministry's livestock and animal health department said ASF poses a serious threat to pig populations. Early detection, rapid reporting, and cooperation among all stakeholders are essential, he emphasised.

 

"We encourage local governments, animal health officers, and farmers to increase vigilance. Strict biosecurity is key for prevention, and any suspicious cases must be immediately reported through iSIKHNAS (Sistem Informasi Kesehatan Hewan Nasional) for fast action," Suganda said in a written statement received here September 14. iSIKHNAS is the country's national animal health information system.

 

The Directorate General issued Circular Letter No. 8492 dated August 19, 2025, regarding preparedness and vigilance against ASF in the Asia Pacific, following reports of rising cases in China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia.

 

The circular calls on provincial and city/district livestock offices, veterinary authorities, and professional organizations to prepare risk mitigation plans, profile farmers and traders, and map livestock distribution routes for early detection.

 

Measures include stricter pig health monitoring, reporting symptoms to iSIKHNAS, risk-based surveillance, and prompt investigation and sample collection for lab testing if cases arise.

 

Farm-level biosecurity must include regular disinfection, restricted movement, and hygiene protocols. Transport of pigs and products from infected areas is banned, and all transported pigs must have valid health certificates.

 

The ministry's Director of Animal Health, Hendra Wibawa, stressed disciplined data reporting through iSIKHNAS for effective control measures.