Australia’s Rp 61 Billion Plan to Aid Indonesia’s Coronavirus Pandemic Fight

KOMPAS.com – Australia will aid Indonesia’s fight against the coronavirus pandemic by providing AUD $6.2 million to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The move is part of Australia’s commitment to cooperate with Indonesia and as an international partner in containing the coronavirus pandemic.

Australia’s financial assistance amounts to around Rp 61 billion.

“As neighbors and longtime partners, Indonesia and Australia are well-positioned to overcome these challenges together,” said Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Gary Quinian.

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Through the AUD $6.2 million aid, Australia hopes that the WHO and Indonesia will work together to strengthen Indonesia’s laboratories.

Australia’s WHO aid is hoped to be harnessed to collect and use health information and to help protect patients and healthcare workers.

“Supporting Indonesia’s immediate critical health security efforts, in partnership with the WHO, is fundamental to ensuring our region’s recovery,” wrote Ambassador Gary.

WHO assistance

WHO will also work with Indonesia in the next two years to achieve improved national policies and procedures to better respond to public health emergencies.

“With the support from DFAT, WHO will be able to ensure essential support is provided towards the preparedness of the health system, including enhancing the national surveillance and case detection system, and strengthening infection prevention and control activities,” said WHO Representative to Indonesia Dr. N. Paraniethara in his statement.

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Australia and WHO will also offer Indonesia continued support to ensure that health and humanitarian needs are met.

These efforts are to mitigate the impact of the Covid-19 virus on communities and the most vulnerable groups.

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