Jakarta (ANTARA) - Health Minister Terawan Agus Putranto called on Indonesians to adopt a disciplined approach in applying health protocols to protect themselves, their families, and the community from contracting COVID-19.

"Take care of yourselves, take care of your families and society, save the nation from the COVID-19 pandemic by wearing masks properly, keeping your distance, and diligently washing your hands with soap," he emphasized here on Thursday while observing National Health Day (HKN).

During the commemoration of 2020 National Health Day, the minister spoke to health workers in various regions in Indonesia through video calling.

Health workers on duty at hospitals and other health facilities reported about the public health conditions and efforts to deal with COVID-19 in their areas.

On the occasion, Putranto invited all societal elements to applaud for 56 seconds for the health workers to commend their steadfast dedication in providing health services during the pandemic and citizens that observed discipline in applying health protocols.

"By staying disciplined in implementing health protocols, we are fighting together and still fighting (against the pandemic). Now is the time for us to unite our determination and enthusiasm for a healthy Indonesia, give our applause to all COVID-19 fighters. Let us all clap together on November 12, 2020, at 12:00 WIB (Western Indonesian Standard Time) for 56 seconds," he stated on the Instagram account of the Ministry of Health.

Director General of Public Health of the Ministry of Health Kirana Pritasari, in the 56th HKN Handbook, stated that this year's National Health Day commemoration is themed "Unite Determination Towards a Healthy Indonesia."

"This is an appeal to all health workers and all components of society to stay determined and strive to save the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic," he affirmed.

"Take care of yourselves, families, and the society. Save the nation from the COVID-19 pandemic is a sub-theme that invites people not to give up, not to surrender, and not to be lax in maintaining personal health in order to create a healthy Indonesia," he added. Related news: Health office distributes 10,500 free face masks in Papua
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Translator: Aditya Ramadhan, Fardah
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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