# Understanding BPOM: The Role of Indonesia’s Food and Drug Regulatory Agency
The Indonesian Agency of Drug and Food Control, widely recognized as BPOM (Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makanan), serves as the primary government institution tasked with regulating and supervising the safety of pharmaceutical products and food supplies throughout Indonesia. Much like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States or the European Medicines Agency (EMA) in Europe, BPOM operates as a non-ministerial government agency that reports directly to the President of Indonesia through the Ministry of Health.
## The Core Mandate of BPOM
BPOM’s primary objective is to safeguard public health by implementing rigorous regulatory oversight. Its jurisdiction covers a vast array of consumer products, ensuring they adhere to the national legal framework before entering the market. The scope of their regulatory authority includes:
* Pharmaceuticals: Drugs, medicinal ingredients, narcotics, psychotropics, precursors, and addictive substances.
* Health and Wellness: Traditional medicines and health supplements.
* Consumer Goods: Cosmetics and processed food products.
## Launch Your Career: BPOM Kendari Internship Program
In alignment with the national "Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka" (MBKM) initiative—an educational program designed to bridge the gap between academic theory and professional practice—the BPOM office in Kendari is currently inviting active university students to join their internship program. This is a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience within a high-stakes regulatory environment.
Eligible Academic Disciplines
BPOM Kendari is seeking motivated candidates from a wide variety of educational backgrounds to support its diverse operational needs. Applications are encouraged from students enrolled in the following fields:
1. Pharmacy and Apothecary studies
2. Biology and Biotechnology
3. Chemistry
4. Food Technology
5. Laboratory Analysis
6. Public Health
7. Accounting and Finance
8. Management and Economics
9. Public Administration
10. Information Technology
11. Statistics
12. Journalism
13. Archival Science
14. Other relevant academic majors
## How to Apply
To ensure a high-quality learning experience, BPOM Kendari strictly limits the number of interns accepted per intake period. Candidates are encouraged to apply early to secure a position.
* Submission Process: Please send your formal internship application letter via email to [email protected].
* Inquiries: For additional information or questions regarding the application process, please contact the office via WhatsApp (Chat Only) at 0851-7432-3714.
By participating in this program, students will gain valuable insights into public policy, regulatory affairs, and the essential safety protocols that protect millions of citizens daily.