
Faculty of Medicine University of Indonesia: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Visitor Guide
Date: 15/06/2025
Introduction: History and Significance
The Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia (FMUI or FKUI), is a cornerstone of Indonesia’s medical education and research. Located at the historic Salemba campus in Central Jakarta, FKUI is Indonesia’s oldest and most prestigious medical faculty, serving as a cultural and educational landmark that traces the nation’s journey from colonial times to modern innovation. Established in 1851 as STOVIA during the Dutch colonial era, FKUI has evolved alongside Indonesia’s national identity, playing a critical role in developing the country’s healthcare system and fostering generations of leading medical professionals (UI History, FKUI Global).
Visitors to FKUI can experience a campus where colonial heritage meets contemporary facilities, adjacent to major teaching hospitals like Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, which are hubs for clinical training and cutting-edge research (OUCRU Indonesia). The Salemba campus is easily accessible, making it an attractive destination for prospective students, researchers, and cultural tourists interested in Indonesia’s medical legacy.
This guide provides an in-depth look at FKUI’s history, practical information for campus visits—including hours, tickets, and tours—and highlights key attractions and tips for making the most of your visit.
Contents
- Introduction: History and Significance
- Colonial Foundations and the Birth of Medical Education
- Transition to Universiteit van Indonesië and Nationalization
- Expansion and Institutional Development
- The Salemba Campus: Visitor Information
- Visiting Hours and Access
- Tickets and Guided Tours
- Accessibility and Travel Tips
- Modernization and International Recognition
- Research and Teaching Hospitals
- Role in Indonesian Society and Nation-Building
- Preservation of Heritage and Ongoing Evolution
- FAQ: Visiting the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia
- Key Milestones and Achievements
- Conclusion
Colonial Foundations and the Birth of Medical Education
FMUI’s roots stretch back to 1851, when STOVIA (School tot Opleiding van Indische Artsen) was founded in Batavia (now Jakarta) to train indigenous doctors for the Dutch East Indies. STOVIA was a pioneering institution, opening higher education to native Indonesians, albeit under stringent colonial control. The curriculum—delivered in Dutch—reflected the standards of European medicine, and STOVIA graduates would become prominent figures in Indonesia’s future healthcare and independence movements (UI History).
Transition to Universiteit van Indonesië and Nationalization
Following World War II and during Indonesia’s struggle for independence, the Nood-universiteit (Emergency University) was established in 1947, eventually becoming the Universiteit van Indonesië. Due to political instability, the university operated temporarily in Yogyakarta before returning to Jakarta after the Dutch formally recognized Indonesian sovereignty in 1949. In 1950, the university was reorganized as Universitas Indonesia (UI), with the Faculty of Medicine as a founding faculty (UI History).
Expansion and Institutional Development
The 1950s and 1960s marked rapid growth for UI, with the Faculty of Medicine at its core. Additional faculties were established in other cities and later became independent universities, but FKUI remained at Salemba, solidifying its status as Indonesia’s leading medical school. During this era, FKUI became the principal training ground for the nation’s doctors, researchers, and health policymakers (UI History).
The Salemba Campus: Visitor Information
Location and Accessibility
The Salemba campus is centrally located at Salemba Raya Street No. 6, Central Jakarta (UICC). It is accessible by TransJakarta buses, commuter trains, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Gojek and Grab. The campus is near Jakarta’s major attractions, making it a convenient cultural and academic stop (Indie Traveller).
Visiting Hours and Access
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (subject to change during exams or special events).
- Entry: Public areas are open to visitors. Present ID at the security checkpoint upon entry.
Tickets and Guided Tours
- Entry Fee: No fee for public access.
- Guided Tours: Available by prior arrangement through FKUI’s Community Relations Office. For groups or educational visits, contact FKUI in advance as some tours may incur a nominal charge (FKUI Contact).
Accessibility and Travel Tips
- Public Transport: TransJakarta, city buses, and commuter trains serve the area.
- Parking: Limited on campus; public transport is recommended.
- Nearby Amenities: Cafés, warungs, ATMs, and pharmacies are available around Salemba Raya. Hotels in Salemba, Mangga Dua, and Sudirman suit various budgets (The Broke Backpacker).
Modernization and International Recognition
Since the late 20th century, FKUI has modernized its curriculum, expanded research facilities, and forged partnerships with global institutions. It remains Indonesia’s top-ranked medical school, earning recognition in international rankings such as QS World University Rankings and World EduRank (FKUI Global). FMUI also hosts renowned research units like OUCRU Indonesia, contributing to global medical science (OUCRU Indonesia).
Research and Teaching Hospitals
FKUI’s educational mission is closely tied to major hospitals, notably Cipto Mangunkusumo and Persahabatan Hospital, which provide clinical training and lead significant research in infectious diseases and public health (OUCRU Indonesia). The faculty publishes medical journals such as Medical Journal Indonesia and Media Aesculapius (WHED UI).
Role in Indonesian Society and Nation-Building
FKUI alumni have become prominent leaders in government, academia, and international organizations. The faculty’s commitment to scientific inquiry, public service, and inclusivity—welcoming students from across Indonesia and abroad—has made it a central force in shaping national health policy and advancing medical education (FKUI Global).
Preservation of Heritage and Ongoing Evolution
The Salemba campus’s colonial and modernist buildings are preserved as cultural heritage sites, with ongoing efforts to maintain historical artifacts and architecture. FKUI continues to innovate, expanding its research agenda and pedagogical approaches while honoring its legacy (FKUI Global).
FAQ: Visiting the Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia
Q: What are the visiting hours for FKUI?
A: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Always check the official website for updates.
Q: Is there an entry fee or ticket required?
A: No entrance fee for public areas; guided tours may require prior booking and a nominal fee.
Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Photography is allowed outdoors and in public spaces with permission; avoid photographing academic activities or sensitive areas without consent.
Q: How do I get to FKUI from the airport?
A: By taxi or ride-hailing service, the journey from Soekarno-Hatta International Airport takes approximately 45–90 minutes, depending on traffic.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by arrangement through the Community Relations Office.
Key Milestones and Achievements
- 1851: STOVIA medical school established in Batavia.
- 1947: Universiteit van Indonesië founded during the independence struggle.
- 1950: Universitas Indonesia officially established; FKUI becomes a core faculty.
- 1987: Depok campus opens; FKUI remains at Salemba.
- 2008: Launch of Eijkman-Oxford Clinical Research Unit (EOCRU).
- 2022: EOCRU becomes OUCRU Indonesia, expanding global research.
- 2024: FKUI ranked #1 for medicine in Indonesia (FKUI Global).
Practical Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Dry season (June–September) is ideal for campus walks (The Broke Backpacker).
- Dress Code: Modest, neat attire is recommended; respect academic customs.
- Campus Etiquette: Remain quiet in academic zones and during ceremonies; greet staff and students politely.
- Cultural Insights: Learn basic Bahasa Indonesia greetings; FKUI is a microcosm of Indonesia’s diversity (FKUI Undergraduate Program).
- Safety: The campus is secure; keep valuables safe and follow security protocols.
Points of Interest
- Salemba 6 Main Building: Iconic colonial structure with administrative offices and lecture halls.
- Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital: Historic teaching hospital adjacent to campus (The Conversation).
- Commemorative Landmarks: Statues and plaques honoring founders and alumni.
- Library and Museum Exhibits: Historical displays curated by the Indonesian Medical History Association (FKUI History).
- Academic Events: Public lectures, health fairs, and community outreach activities (FKUI Events).
Accessibility for International Visitors
FKUI welcomes international students and scholars, with many academic activities conducted in English. However, most daily interactions are in Bahasa Indonesia. Check visa requirements before visiting (Study Abroad Aide).
Summary and Visitor Recommendations
The Faculty of Medicine, University of Indonesia, is a living testament to Indonesia’s medical, educational, and national history. As the country’s oldest medical faculty, FKUI continues to excel through cutting-edge research, international collaborations, and a commitment to public health. The Salemba campus offers a blend of historic architecture, commemorative landmarks, and vibrant academic life, making it an enriching destination for visitors.
For a rewarding visit:
- Confirm hours and tour availability on the FKUI Official Website.
- Explore nearby Jakarta landmarks such as the National Monument (Monas) to enhance your cultural experience.
- Download the Audiala app for curated tours and up-to-date travel tips.
Your visit to FKUI provides a unique perspective on the evolution of Indonesian healthcare and the enduring importance of education in nation-building (UI History, FKUI Global, OUCRU Indonesia).
Further Reading and Official Sources
- Faculty of Medicine University of Indonesia History, Campus Visits, and Visitor Information, 2024
- FKUI Global, 2024
- OUCRU Indonesia, 2024
- FKUI Official Website
- UICC Membership - Faculty Medicine Universitas Indonesia, 2024
- Indie Traveller - Jakarta Travel Guide, 2024
- The Conversation - Founders of Indonesia’s Health and Research Institutes, 2018
- Study Abroad Aide - Best Medical Schools Indonesia, 2024