Jokowi Collaborates With Artists To Promote Health Protocols To The Public

JAKARTA - About 30 art workers were welcomed by President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Tuesday, July 14. This meeting, said the Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy Wishnutama Kusubandio, was held because Jokowi wanted them to conduct socialization regarding the application of health protocols to the public.

"The President met several artists who of course we know that they can help voice health protocols so that the public can hear, socialize and implement them more broadly," Wishnutama said in a video broadcast on the Presidential Secretariat YouTube account, Wednesday, July 15. .

With the contribution of art workers, it is hoped that the socialization of the application of health protocols can be conveyed more massively to the public, in a unique way that is unique to these artists. Because, at this time many people still do not realize the importance of implementing strict health protocols during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition, by cooperating with artists who have communities and fans, it will be easier to socialize health protocols. "In a way they might be more creative, more unique, more fun, so that people can hear or be noticed," he said.

Artist Butet Kertaradjasa said that during the meeting, art workers were asked to help the government convey policies during a pandemic like today.

"At least with their respective expertise, these art practitioners use their expertise to appeal to the public, idols or their fans to comply with government recommendations that have been implemented by the local government. For example, they have to wear masks, keep their distance, and wash their hands. "he said.

Butet added that the artists also had time to provide input to President Jokowi regarding the situation experienced by the art community during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

"We provide input to the President on how the state is present in the pandemic season, especially for the arts community, to artists, to traditional art actors in what form the country is present. To dancers, writers, writers, theater, film players, art crew, performances or whatever, "said Butet.

Previously, President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) asked all his staff to intensify the application of health protocols to prevent transmission of COVID-19. Because, in the past few days, the number of positive cases has increased.

Based on the data received, the number of additional positive cases was due to a lack of public awareness of following health protocols. So, it needs more massive socialization.

"Reinforce the national disciplinary movement towards this health protocol by keeping your distance, wearing masks, and washing your hands," Jokowi said when opening a limited meeting to accelerate the handling of the impact of COVID-19 at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta, Monday, July 13.

The former Governor of DKI Jakarta said that many people still underestimate health protocols. On this basis, Jokowi then requested that the mobilization of the health protocol discipline movement be carried out by various elements such as the TNI, Polri, mass organizations, volunteers, community leaders, and campuses.

"All are moved to participate in this campaign and at the same time supervise," he said.