"Social solidarity can prevent the transmission of the Omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus, which has entered Indonesia," she remarked at the commemoration of the 64th National Social Solidarity Day in Pangkalpinang, Bangka Belitung on Monday.
Reflecting on solidarity would reinforce the spirit of togetherness and cooperation in relation to compliance with and imposition of the COVID-19 health protocols, as well as the vaccination target as set by the government to counter infections, the minister said.
"If we go ahead and only think about ourselves, for example, if we don't want to wear masks or get vaccinated, of course, it will directly interfere with addressing the COVID-19 problem," she explained.
The COVID-19 pandemic has been going on for almost two years, she noted. It has claimed more than thousands of lives and also impacted several sectors that people depend on, she said.
"Especially the economic sector, which was affected (and led to a) reduction in working hours, even to the point of job loss, because a number of companies tried to be efficient in an attempt to survive amidst the pandemic," Rismaharini elaborated.
Yet, despite the challenges, there has been strong solidarity among Indonesians, which has led to the successful controlling of the pandemic, she said.
"Everyone must work hand in hand, donating energy, thoughts, time, property, even lives, to save those infected with COVID-19 and prevent its transmission, also to help those who are affected economy-wise," she added.
She urged everyone to keep up with the global competition that they are currently facing. The key to winning over it lies in togetherness, unity, and solidarity, which must be encouraged and fostered, she said.
"Don't be divided. Let's work together to overcome various challenges. With our shortcomings, the solution is to work together," she remarked.
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Translator: Aprionis, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Sri Haryati
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