Jakarta (ANTARA) - Manpower Minister Ida Fauziyah has encouraged prospective Indonesian migrant workers (CPMI) departing for placement countries to be included among priority recipients of the COVID-19 vaccine.

"It is our wish that our CPMI are also given priority for receiving vaccines. They are a vulnerable group because they will soon be deployed abroad," Minister Fauziyah remarked while reviewing worker vaccinations held at the Ministry of Manpower office, Jakarta, Tuesday.

In addition to prospective Indonesian workers (TKI), Minister Fauziyah highlighted the need for prospective apprentices, who will be placed abroad, to become a priority for recipients of the COVID-19 vaccine.

In a series of vaccination programs targeting 800 workers, the Ministry of Manpower aims to vaccinate trade union members and laborers, prospective Indonesian migrant workers, and apprentices departing the country.

The program was implemented as part of the commemoration of Labor Day or May Day 2021 and part of the government’s steps to deal with COVID-19 and its impact on the health and labor sectors.

"Hence, we are grateful to the CPMI to get priority to receive vaccines. God willing, with the confidence of their friends, the CPMI will be well-received in placement countries," the minister stated, adding that the CPMI vaccination would continue.

On the occasion, Fauziyah reminded hundreds of workers administered vaccination to maintain health protocols despite having received the COVID-19 vaccine.

The minister invited all to take a cue from the experiences of other countries, such as India, whose cases had increased after vaccination was conducted due to neglect of health protocols. Related news: 158 Indonesian migrant workers repatriated from Pacific countries
Related news: Safe migration corridor needed to protect Indonesian workers: Marsudi


EDITED BY INE

Translator: Prisca T, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Suharto
Copyright © ANTARA 2021