Jakarta (ANTARA) - Head of the Center for Quality Improvement of Health Human Resources at the Health Ministry, Diono Susilo, reminded that Indonesia's economic recovery began with healthy people or low COVID-19 cases during the pandemic.

"In the past, (better) economy was what we were pushing for, and now, it turns out that (good) health is a must. (Bodily) health will also have an impact on economic health," Susilo noted during a virtual discussion as seen here on Wednesday.

Susilo remarked that all should maintain the good situation in addition to broadening understanding of the importance of health on the economy, be it for the public or for various stakeholders.

The Health Ministry has consistently edified the public on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through various programs and campaigns, such as the Healthy Living Community Movement (Germas), or the Integrated Healthcare Center for the public.

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"At this moment, the role of the Integrated Healthcare Center is very useful, and the role of health workers in primary and secondary services by educating about the importance of healthy living is our main capital to maintain the state in which people realize that health is expensive and has an impact on the individual and state economy," he remarked.

Currently, new cases of COVID-19 in Indonesia have consistently remained below one thousand since October 15, 2021. As of yesterday, some 434 new cases were recorded, thus bringing the total COVID-19 case count nationally to 4,248,843.

He cautioned the public to stay alert and remain vigilant, as the pandemic was not over yet.

"We remind the people again that the pandemic is not over yet. It is true that there has been a decline. This is because of the cooperation among us all, both the government and the public. Together, apply the 5M health protocols anywhere and at any time, and this will speed up the eradication (of the pandemic) and avoid (repeating) events (like) in the past," he remarked.

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Translator: Aditya Ramadhan, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Suharto
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