"We, at the Ministry of BUMN, have been given a target to (supply) independent vaccines for as many as 75 million people. As for the government-assisted vaccines, I am certain that the numbers will be the same or larger. However, of course, let the process be discussed by the government side," Thohir noted during an online seminar here on Saturday.
The BUMN minister revealed that Indonesia will wait for another 1.8 million doses of the vaccine in the next stage of vaccine shipment in January 2021, and an additional 15 million of raw materials to be utilized to produce vaccines by Bio Farma, also in January 2021.
Thohir projects government-assisted vaccines and non-subsidized vaccines, to be available in January 2021, adding that the Ministry of Health will be the deciding authority on the amount of each vaccine.
"The task of the Ministry of BUMN is clear, specifically (to supply) independent vaccines for 75 million people," the BUMN minister affirmed.
The ministry will establish cooperation with private hospitals and clinics to implement the vaccination program for those willing to pay for the vaccines.
Some 13 million people are expected to be vaccinated at their own expense, starting January, and the program is expected to be completed in August or September 2021.
"Insyaa Allah, the target is 75 million people for independent vaccination, and around the 8th or 9th month of 2021, if vaccination starts in January 2021, it can be accomplished," Thohir stated.
The minister cautioned against anyone tampering with the prices of COVID-19 vaccines. Related news: MPR supports government's endeavor to lobby COVID-19 vaccine producers
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Translator: Aji Cakti, Fardah
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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