President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) reminded all Papuans to actively participate in the 2024 Polio National Immunization Program (PIN). On several occasions, the President emphasized the importance of this immunization in protecting future generations from the threat of polio disease which can cause permanent paralysis.
Polio is an infectious disease caused by poliovirus that attacks the central nervous system, especially in children under the age of five. The disease can cause permanent paralysis and even death. Although the world has made great efforts to eradicate polio, some areas in Indonesia, including Papua, still face challenges in achieving optimal immunization coverage.
The Indonesian government, under the leadership of President Jokowi, is committed to ensuring that all children in Indonesia are protected from polio. PIN Polio 2024 is one of the strategic efforts to achieve this goal. The program is designed to provide polio immunization to all children under the age of five, regardless of their health status or geography.
President Jokowi has instructed all levels of government, from central to regional levels, to work together to make this program a success. During his several working visits to Papua, the President directly met with communities and conveyed the importance of polio immunization. He emphasized that active participation from all parties, including parents, health workers, and community leaders, is needed to ensure the success of this program.
Papua, with its diverse geography and limited access to some remote areas, faces special challenges in immunization implementation. Some of these challenges include:
  Many areas in Papua are difficult to reach due to harsh geographical conditions and limited infrastructure. This makes it difficult for health workers to reach all children who need immunization.
  Limited health workers and medical facilities in some areas are also an obstacle to the implementation of immunization programs. The government is trying to address this issue by sending additional assistance and support to areas in need.
  Lack of awareness and knowledge about the importance of immunization in some communities is a challenge. Therefore, education and awareness campaigns are essential to increase community participation in immunization programs.
President Jokowi emphasized that the success of the 2024 Polio NID is highly dependent on the active participation of the community and the support of local leaders. Parents are expected to ensure that their children get polio immunization as scheduled. In addition, traditional leaders, religious leaders, and community leaders are expected to play an active role in educating and encouraging the community to support this program.
The Government of Indonesia is committed to continue supporting and strengthening the polio immunization program. In addition to the polio immunization program, the government is also implementing other health programs aimed at improving the quality of life and health of Papuans. Investments in health infrastructure, capacity building of health workers, and provision of adequate medical facilities are some of the concrete steps that have been taken.
With concerted efforts and strong commitment from all parties, it is hoped that Polio NID 2024 will successfully protect children in Papua from the threat of polio. The success of this program will be an important step in achieving the goal of a polio-free Indonesia and providing a healthier and brighter future for future generations.
President Jokowi reminded the importance of the Papuan people’s participation in the success of the 2024 Polio PIN. Through collaboration between the government, the community, and various stakeholders, it is hoped that all children in Papua can be protected from polio. By doing so, Indonesia can move closer to the global goal of eradicating polio and ensuring better health for future generations.
