The Regency Government of Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), has instructed all sub-district, village, and urban community heads to strengthen synergy in handling mental health cases in an integrated manner. This step was taken following data from July 2026 showing that 942 local residents have been identified as People with Mental Disorders (ODGJ), with 39 of them still in shackled conditions.
Acting Regional Secretary of Manggarai Regency, Lambertus Paput, emphasized that mental health management must go hand in hand with the fulfillment of physical health to improve the overall quality of life of the community. He reminded that people with mental disorders are a vulnerable group that requires collective care to be free from discriminatory social stigma.
Based on data from 25 community health centers (puskesmas) spread across 12 sub-districts, only about 600 patients or 64 percent have accessed routine treatment services. Meanwhile, as many as 342 other patients are reported to have not received optimal medical treatment. Langke Rembong sub-district recorded the highest number of patients with mental disorders at 121 people, followed by Satar Mese with 111 people, and Ruteng sub-district with 106 people.
In an effort to find a comprehensive solution, the Community Mental Health Implementation Team (TPKJM) of Manggarai Regency held an evaluation workshop involving security forces, relevant agencies, the Diocese of Ruteng, and non-governmental organizations. Project Officer for Mental Health of the Ayo Indonesia Foundation, Jery Santoso, stated that the recovery of people with mental disorders cannot rely solely on medical treatment, but requires continuous support from their immediate environment.
The main obstacles currently faced in the field include the limited understanding of family caregivers, economic issues, monitoring of medication adherence, and the lack of health workers in remote areas. To overcome these challenges, village governments are encouraged to utilize the allocation of Village Funds for economic empowerment programs, social assistance, and the strengthening of community-based mental health workers.
