Jakarta (Indonesia Window) — The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has highlighted the growing role of healthcare cooperation in its relationship with Indonesia, pointing to the Emirates-Indonesia Cardiology Hospital in Solo city, Central Java province, and partnerships with local institutions such as the Muhammadiyah Medical Center (MMC) as examples of how humanitarian collaboration can evolve into long-term sustainable development.

Speaking recently, the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Indonesia and   Timor-Leste, Abdulla Salem AlDhaheri, emphasized that trusted local partners are essential to ensuring humanitarian assistance, reaching communities effectively and creating lasting impact.

“Trusted local partners represent the vital last mile of humanitarian efforts. They bring local knowledge, cultural understanding, and operational expertise that help ensure assistance is delivered effectively and reaches those who need it most,” Ambassador AlDhaheri said.

He cited the UAE’s collaboration with MMC and LAZISMU (Muhammadiyah’s Islamic alms institution) during flash flood response efforts in North Sumatra as a successful example of humanitarian partnership.

According to the ambassador, organizations deeply rooted in local communities play a crucial role in ensuring aid is distributed efficiently, appropriately, and with a clear understanding of local needs.

Beyond emergency assistance, AlDhaheri said such partnerships help empower communities to strengthen their own resilience and recovery efforts.

The ambassador also highlighted the inauguration of the Emirates-Indonesia Cardiology Hospital in Solo, describing it as a major milestone in UAE-Indonesia relations and a symbol of the two countries’ shared commitment to improving public health.

“The inauguration of the Emirates-Indonesia Cardiology Hospital is a powerful testament to what can be achieved through meaningful partnership and a shared commitment to improving people’s well-being,” he said.

According to AlDhaheri, the future of healthcare cooperation between the UAE and Indonesia extends beyond the construction of medical facilities. Both countries are exploring opportunities for deeper collaboration in medical training, knowledge exchange, joint research, and digital healthcare integration.

“Our cooperation extends beyond infrastructure toward deeper knowledge exchange and long-term capacity building,” he said, adding that the goal is to help ensure Indonesia’s healthcare system remains resilient, sustainable, and accessible for future generations.

The ambassador also stressed the importance of linking healthcare development with broader sustainability goals. Future healthcare systems, he said, must be supported by reliable water and energy infrastructure, climate resilience, resource efficiency, and digital innovation.

From the UAE’s perspective, health, water security, energy, and sustainability are closely interconnected, particularly in communities vulnerable to climate-related challenges and natural disasters.

As Indonesia and the UAE approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2026, AlDhaheri said healthcare cooperation is becoming one of the strongest pillars of the bilateral partnership.

Through initiatives such as the Emirates-Indonesia Cardiology Hospital and collaboration with trusted Indonesian organizations like Muhammadiyah Medical Center, both countries are demonstrating how humanitarian cooperation can create lasting benefits and contribute to stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.

Reporting by Indonesia Window