JAKARTA. PT Bukit Asam Tbk (PTBA) is exploring cooperation in the fields of pharmaceuticals to medical devices, by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PT Kimia Farma Tbk (KAEF).

Arsal Ismail, President Director of PTBA, said that his party had signed an MoU with KAEF in Jakarta on Thursday (9/11). The MoU will begin exploring business synergies between PTBA and KAEF related to pharmaceutical distribution, to the medical equipment and laboratory business.

"The hope is that this collaboration will be mutually beneficial," said Ismail, in an official statement.

Meanwhile, David Utama, President Director of KAEF, said that his party welcomed the collaboration. "We hope that this collaboration will improve the quality and access to health services in the community through the resources owned by KAEF and PTBA," said Utama.

For the record, PTBA runs a health services business through one of its affiliated companies, namely PT Bukit Asam Medika (BAM). Currently BAM manages a number of hospitals and pharmacies in the PTBA operational area. (KR/LM)