The Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI) of Tanjungpinang City has expressed its full support for efforts to enhance public information transparency at the Raja Ahmad Thabib Regional General Hospital (RSUD RAT) in the Riau Islands. This step is deemed crucial to optimizing the comprehensive delivery of healthcare service programs to the public.
The Chairman of PWI Tanjungpinang, Suhardi, conveyed this during the 2026 Public Consultation Forum (FKP) organized by RSUD RAT. He highlighted the importance of information transparency, particularly concerning the rights of BPJS Kesehatan (National Health Insurance) patients. Historically, a lack of public understanding regarding this information has often triggered negative reactions regarding the quality of hospital services.
According to Suhardi, alongside plans to develop the hospital's physical facilities, the dissemination of information must also become a priority program. Inputs from the press are expected to help the hospital management formulate public communication strategies that are more effective, transparent, and easily accessible to all groups.
Responding to this, the Director of RSUD RAT, dr. Bambang Utoyo, outlined the strategic plan for the construction of a new specialist outpatient clinic building. The project, scheduled to break ground in September 2026, is targeted for completion and operation by early 2028. Eventually, all specialist doctor services will be integrated into a single building to enhance patient comfort.
The forum also served as a platform for legislators and community figures to share their aspirations. The Secretary of Commission IV of the Riau Islands Regional House of Representatives (DPRD Kepri), Boby Jayanto, reminded the management to continue improving operational services, especially in resolving patient queue congestion. Meanwhile, one of the forum participants, Nazaruddin, suggested using the names of Malay historical fighters for the hospital rooms.
