Had Sent Aid To India, Now The Government Is Starting To Run Out Of Oxygen Stocks

JAKARTA - Spokesperson for the Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Jodi Mahardi, said that the government continues to strive to meet oxygen demand. This is necessary for the maximum handling of COVID-19 patients, from within and outside the country.

Indonesia, some time ago also had time to provide oxygen cylinders to India, around 5000 cylinders. The aid delivery was based on state cooperation and in the name of humanity due to the explosion of cases in India. However, the current conditions in the country really require additional oxygen cylinders. Meanwhile, to get oxygen cylinder assistance from abroad, there has been no sign of fulfillment.

"We are aware that the availability of oxygen is limited, therefore the government will continue to seek and continue to seek oxygen optimally in various ways, both in the local industry and preparing import options. Currently, people's safety is the main law", said Jodi during an annual press conference virtual in Jakarta, Sunday.

Jodi also suggested that the public, especially those who are exposed to COVID-19 with oxygen saturation below 90, find a practical guide for help to the nearest doctor and nurse, or seek information via interactive telemedicine to learn and practice the help that needs to be done immediately.

Regarding the need for an increasing number of medicines and pharmaceutical devices during Emergency PPKM, Jodi said that the Ministry of Health continues to coordinate with the Ministry of Industry, LKPP, and the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM) to accelerate the fulfillment of national needs through the domestic pharmaceutical and medical device industry. during the Emergency PPKM.

"The Emergency PPKM Coordinator also asked the Attorney General's Office and Financial and Development Supervisory Agency (BPKP) to oversee the acceleration program for the procurement of pharmaceutical products and medical devices during the Emergency PPKM period. This is a critical period, not the time to take personal gain. Once again, punishment will definitely await", said Jodi.

Jodi added that punishment awaits those who violate the law and exploit the emergency for personal gain. For the general public who are not facing a critical situation, Jodi appealed not to hoard oxygen.

"We are prioritizing saving the lives of our brothers and sisters at this time. Distributors and perpetrators of hoarding oxygen and essential drugs for COVID-19 are the enemies of society and there will be rewards", said Jodi.

Jodi appealed to the public to continue to implement the provisions of the Emergency PPKM and comply with the health protocols that have been determined by the government.

"Stay at home, wear a mask, it's better if two masks, wash your hands often, and obey the health procedures are a fixed price. Not complying with the health procedures will lead to sanctions and endanger others", concluded Jodi.