"Yesterday, I received information on the (health) minister’s estimate of 15 months. However, I still bid for less than a year for it to be completed," Jokowi noted at the State Palace here on Tuesday.
The head of state affirmed that the government should work hard for quick and precise handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, so that normalcy can soon be restored in the people's lives.
On Sunday, (Jan 3), the central government began distributing the COVID-19 vaccine to 34 provinces.
Related news: Indonesia to commence symbolic COVID-19 vaccination on Jan 13
"In the first stage, only 700 thousand (vaccine doses) are sent to the regions, but we have three million (doses) in stock. As many as 700 thousand doses are sent to the regions, and they will be sent again later," the president stated.
Next week, raw materials for manufacturing 15 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine are scheduled to arrive for processing into vaccines by PT Biofarma. The vaccine will thereafter be sent to the regions.
The head of state remarked that in the first stage, vaccination had been prioritized for healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses working at hospitals.
"Secondly, it is the TNI (military)-Polri (police personnel) as well as teachers and also for the community," he stated.
The president is optimistic that transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 would be brought under greater control after vaccination.
Jokowi further reminded residents to adopt a disciplined approach in implementing health protocols to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 by wearing masks, maintaining distance, and washing hands.
"Do not go to crowded places and maintain your distance, as the key lies there until the vaccination is completed. Worldwide-vaccination is estimated to be competed in three and a half years," the president stated.
Related news: Indonesia's first phase of COVID-19 vaccination takes 15 months: govt
Translator: Indra Areif P, Fardah
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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