Unique, Makassar Kodim Vaccinates Residents In Ambulance Tanks

MAKASSAR - Military District Command Headquarters (Kodim) 1408/BS Makassar, South Sulawesi, carried out a COVID-19 vaccination by utilizing ambulance battle tanks as a vaccination site for local residents.

"This is one of our ways to attract people's attention to getting vaccinated, while at the same time taking advantage of the opportunity to see the TNI's tactical vehicles firsthand," said the Commander of Kodim 1408/BS Makassar, Colonel Kav Dwi Irbaya, quoted by Antara, Tuesday, August 25.

He explained that the ambulance tank was usually used on the battlefield to evacuate wounded soldiers during the war. However, in order to stimulate public interest in wanting to be vaccinated, an ambulance tank car was issued as well as a series of celebrations for the 76th Indonesian Independence Day.

The ambulance tank type AMX 13 VCTB is the first ambulance tank in Indonesia equipped with emergency medical equipment and the Indonesian Army cavalry team. This ambulance tank is included as a special armored vehicle category.

Regarding the vaccine dose provided in the first stage of the vaccine, Colonel Dwi said, there were 500 doses. Furthermore, in stage two, 600 doses were prepared, with the Sinovac vaccine type.

"This free vaccination is part of an effort to help the government to accelerate vaccination so that people can be protected from COVID-19, including our efforts to escape the pandemic," he added.

One of the participants, Rian, said that he dared to take vaccinations because he wanted to be protected from virus attacks. In addition, the vaccination this time was very interesting because it was carried out in a war ambulance tank belonging to the TNI.

"I am very happy that I have been vaccinated. At first I was nervous, but after the injection, I finally felt relieved. The service was also very friendly. This is just the first dose of vaccine," he said.

Some residents after taking vaccinations, immediately took selfies with the background of the ambulance tank car. Apart from attracting attention, it is also a souvenir for them, because it is very rare for TNI tactical vehicles to be issued, except at certain moments.