A Singapore-led initiative is set to revolutionise heart failure treatment in Indonesia by introducing a groundbreaking artificial heart assist device. Indonesia.md, a subsidiary of Borderless Healthcare Group, has obtained exclusive rights to launch this next-generation device, developed in Shenzhen, in Southeast Asia’s largest healthcare market. The device is notably the smallest and lightest of its kind, designed for long-term support for patients with severe heart failure.
With over 10 million heart-failure patients in Indonesia and a mortality rate exceeding 34%, the need for advanced medical solutions is critical. The country’s limited heart-transplant programme and low organ donation rates further exacerbate the situation. The new device, which is more than 50% smaller than existing US models, is tailored to fit Asian thoracic anatomy and aims to reduce post-operative complications. Its lightweight design and longer-lasting battery enhance patient mobility and independence.
This initiative aligns with Singapore’s ambition to serve as a gateway for Shenzhen’s medtech innovations into Southeast Asia. It leverages Singapore’s digital-health capabilities and Indonesia’s clinical needs, creating a robust platform for medtech deployment. Indonesia.md will operate its Borderless Medical Cloud from Singapore, facilitating cross-border specialist input, patient evaluation, and remote treatment collaboration.
Dr Lim Chong Hee, a key figure in the initiative, highlights the collaborative efforts across Singapore, China, and Indonesia. The project not only strengthens Singapore’s position as a medtech hub but also provides a scalable model for accelerating medtech adoption across Southeast Asia.
