Sadikin delivered the statement in response to the rejection of the draft bill's ratification by two of the nine factions of the commission during a meeting held to decide the draft bill's status here on Monday.
"In a life of democracy, we have to learn that it is impossible for everyone to have the same view. But once the decision has come into effect, we are all Indonesians," he said after attending a meeting with Commission IX.
Sadikin further said that it is his duty to explain the bill and listen to inputs from the factions, which might be missed.
The minister highlighted that the Draft Bill on Health is meant for everyone in Indonesia, and not just for the select few factions in the House of Representatives who accept it.
During the factions’ hearing mini agenda at the Commission IX meeting, the Democrat faction voiced its objection to the ratification of the bill.
"In the discussion about the Draft Bill on Health, there are some basic issues. Democrat suggests for addition to the medical budget other than salaries as well as Infection Prevention and Control Program. But it was not approved, the government instead elects to erase mandatory spending," member of the Democrat faction, Aliyah Mustika Ilham, said.
Mandatory spending refers to state purchases that are regulated by law, and aims to address social and regional economic issues.
The reduction in the medical budget of 10 percent at the central and regional level is outlined in Chapter 420, Articles 2 and 3, of the Draft Bill.
The Democrat faction also said that the item pertaining to foreign doctors practicing in Indonesia must take into account regulations in Indonesia and expressed the hope that domestic medical personnel would get the same opportunities.
The faction expressed support for foreign doctors' involvement, however, it stressed that all doctors who graduate from Indonesia or overseas must be acknowledged and be given the same opportunities to develop their careers.
"Foreign doctors must follow, adhere to the applicable law," she said.
The Prosperous Justice Party faction, represented by Netty Prasetiyani, said that the objection to the bill is owing to its instantaneous discussion process.
"Discussion of the Draft Bill on Health is relatively fast. There needs to be more time in order to make it in-depth and (obtain more) suggestions," she added.
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Translator: Andi Firdaus, Mecca Yumna
Editor: Sri Haryati
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