Jakarta (ANTARA) -

The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) is strengthening international cooperation to provide training in sanitation and water management for participants from across the Asia-Pacific region.

“Many of our training programs are conducted in collaboration with international partners, particularly in the areas of sanitation and water, where we have established a center of excellence in Jatinangor,” PMI Secretary-General AM Fachir said during the organization’s 80th anniversary celebration at Brigif Reservoir in South Jakarta on Wednesday.

Fachir noted that participants hail from Red Cross and Red Crescent societies throughout the Asia-Pacific, with support from the American Red Cross, Australian Red Cross, and Japanese Red Cross.

“There are two major international bodies represented here—the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC),” he added.

Jakarta Red Cross Chairman Beky Mardani said the anniversary celebration also featured a range of community services, including free health checks for 500 residents.

Additionally, 250 students from a public elementary school in Ciganjur, Jagakarsa sub-district, South Jakarta, received education on hygiene and healthy living.

Residents in the surrounding area participated in first aid and environmental awareness sessions.

Mardani added that the event also promoted environmental and food security initiatives, including the planting of 800 fruit tree seedlings and the release of 500 freshwater fish into the reservoir.

“We extend our gratitude to all stakeholders, including the Jakarta Education Office, Jakarta Parks and City Forest Office, and others, for their support of this initiative,” he said.

The commemoration concluded with a ceremonial gathering led by PMI Chairman Jusuf Kalla, attended by provincial and city Red Cross officials, international Red Cross and Red Crescent representatives, and Jakarta government officials.