Efforts to eliminate malaria continue, but one major challenge remains: asymptomatic malaria infections. These silent infections, often undetected under a microscope, are not as harmless as once thought. The UBUAMA study (Uncovering the Burden of Asymptomatic Malaria) is a collaboration between Institut Teknologi Bandung (ITB), the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and EHI which aims to better understand how these infections affect the immune system. Researchers believe that asymptomatic malaria triggers immune suppression, which weakens the body’s ability to fight the disease and respond effectively to vaccines. By studying immune mechanisms, particularly the role of T cell–mediated responses, the project hopes to inform new vaccine strategies, including the use of weakened malaria parasites in immunization.
To prepare for this important research, discussions were held at ITB on 2–3 June 2025. The EHI team presented plans for the UBUAMA study, which will take place in Timika, Papua, with support from local health centers coordinated by YPKMP. Dr. Enny, representing YPKMP, provided valuable input and will help oversee field sample collection. The event also included presentations on community engagement initiatives led by ITB, in partnership with EHI and BRIN. These activities received strong backing from ITB leadership, underscoring a shared commitment to advancing malaria research while also strengthening ties with local communities, which EHI believes is key to achieving long-term impact.
