VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

President Joko Widodo reviews the COVID-19 vaccination program at Mutiara SIS Al-Jufrie Airport complex, on Friday (February 25, 2022). ANTARA/HO- (Biro Admin Pimpinan Setda Provinsi Sulteng) - 

President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has lauded the awareness of the residents of Palu, along with the local government's efforts, in accelerating COVID-19 vaccinations among the public.

"We need to be thankful that the community's enthusiasm to get the vaccine is so good, compared to other provinces and cities," he said during his review of the COVID-19 vaccination programs for children and older adults in the Mutiara SIS Al-Jufrie Airport complex here on Friday.

President Jokowi also mentioned that the hospital bed occupancy rate is lower, if compared to other regions.

"We also need to be thankful for this, and we hope everyone will stay healthy," he said.

Meanwhile, Palu Mayor Hadianto Rasyid, who was present on that occasion, affirmed that the Palu City government continues to make efforts in speeding the deliver of COVID-19 vaccinations to the public.

"Today, there are 1,100 residents who came to get the first, second, and third doses vaccinations," he said.

"Our president continues to push for vaccination acceleration in all regions, including in Palu City," he added.

Rasyid explained that the bed occupancy rate of hospitals in Palu City is still below 30 percent.

In addition, the COVID-19 recovery rate in the city is high, reaching 90 percent, he added.

The mayor expressed his hope that President Jokowi's appreciation of Palu residents' awareness of the importance of receiving COVID-19 vaccinations would motivate the city government to increase efforts in accelerating vaccinations.

"Hopefully, the government's efforts in accelerating vaccinations can run well, as planned," he said.

The Indonesian government launched a nationwide vaccination program on January 13, 2021, as part of the efforts to boost nationwide immunity against COVID-19. President Joko Widodo was the first vaccine recipient under the program.

According to data provided by the Health Ministry, as of February 25, 2022, nearly 190,531,114 Indonesians have received their first COVID-19 jab, 143,280,295 have been fully vaccinated and 9,542,165 have received the booster shot//ANT