Moeldoko Optimistic That Vaccination Achievements Continue To Increase In Ramadan

Presidential Chief of Staff, General TNI (Purn) Moeldoko. ANTARA/HO-Presidential Staff Office

JAKARTA - The Presidential Chief of Staff, General TNI (Purn) Moeldoko, is optimistic that the achievement of COVID-19 vaccination will continue to increase during Ramadan. Previously, the Indonesian Ulema Council had issued a fatwa stating that vaccines do not break fasting.

"The momentum for the congregational tarawih prayers in mosques and prayer rooms can be used as a medium for vaccination. I hope that congregational gatherings can be used to accelerate vaccination," said Moeldoko, quoted by Antara, Saturday, April 2.

Based on the results of the coordination meeting on vaccination preparations and the implementation of health protocols during Ramadan with relevant ministries/agencies, he said, religious leaders also expressed their readiness to support COVID-19 vaccination.

Moeldoko also asked the Ministry of Health to ensure the availability of vaccines in various regions. Do not let, he continued, the public's interest in obtaining vaccines is not matched by the supply of vaccines in the field.

In addition, he also encouraged relevant ministries to involve religious and community leaders in disseminating circulars from government officials regarding the implementation of worship in the month of Ramadan and Eid homecoming activities.

"There is a desire by religious leaders when announcing the provisions for Ramadan worship and holidays to involve the MUI and other community organizations (ormas)," said Moeldoko.

Previously, President Joko Widodo had decided that Muslims could return to performing Tarawih and Eid prayers in congregation at the mosque while still implementing health protocols. The government also allows people to return home to celebrate Eid.

The government requires travelers to have been vaccinated with a booster dose. For travelers who have just received doses of vaccines one and two, must show a negative result of the COVID-19 test either through antigen or PCR.