The Ministry of Cooperatives and Small Medium Enterprises distributes protective masks to micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) makers. (Ministry Public Relations Office)

The Ministry of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises distributed protective masks for free to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) makers as well as the general public to maintain and adhere to health protocols.

The ministry's secretary, Rully Indrawan, noted in a statement received here on Friday that the distribution was conducted since a large number of people and vendors in some areas had yet to follow health protocols and wear masks.

"This is a part of our collective responsibility to ensure adherence to health protocols. These masks have to be worn for our common good," he remarked while distributing masks in South Jakarta's Setia Budi area.

Indrawan further noted that wearing a mask was in accordance with the health protocol that should be followed by MSMEs and the public while outdoors, based on the Large-Scale Social Restriction policy that is still being enacted in DKI Jakarta.

"Wearing a mask is part of the health protocol. A large populace of people have yet to realize the importance of masks. Moreover, sufficient masks are not yet provided for everyone," he stated.

Indrawan is optimistic that the direct distribution of masks to MSMEs and the public as well as awareness on the benefits, functions, and importance of maintaining health would increase.

"The most important aspect is to raise awareness among members of the public that the plague is a joint problem. It must be overcome together with sincerity. Obeying regulations and health protocols as well as staying productive in doing business are paramount," he emphasized.

Indrawan fully supported efforts to facilitate economic recovery for the community while maintaining the health factor and that the masks distributed are products of the MSMEs in Indonesia.

Indrawan spoke of continuing to go around to distribute free masks and personal protective equipment to SMEs, the public, medical workers, clinics, and health services.

Meanwhile, vendors and the public welcomed the effort to distribute free masks by the Ministry of Cooperatives and Small and Medium Enterprises.

"We are grateful. Incidentally, my mask has not been replaced since a long time," Lilis, who sells iftar menu items at the Setia Budi Street, South Jakarta, stated while serving customers ahead of the time to break the fast. (ANTARA)