South Papua Strengthens Synergy for Immunization and Malaria Control

The South Papua Provincial Government is intensifying cross-sector collaboration to expedite immunization programs and malaria control, alongside efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality.

Agustinus Joko Guritno, Assistant I for Government and People's Welfare at the South Papua Regional Secretariat, stated that all Regional Apparatus Organizations (OPDs) are tasked with creating concrete plans. These plans focus on accelerating immunization, controlling malaria, and decreasing maternal and child deaths, addressing serious public health concerns in the region.

"An average of 225 residents in South Papua are diagnosed with malaria daily, so we emphasize the importance of synergy among all parties to improve the community's health status," Joko said in a press release. To provide a long-term foundation, the provincial government is also pushing for the development of regional regulations on health services and the swift enactment of a Governor's Regulation on immunization to mandate complete basic immunization coverage.

Furthermore, the province is enhancing surveillance in border areas through coordination with relevant parties to minimize the risk of cross-border disease transmission. The involvement of traditional and religious leaders is considered crucial as key partners to bridge government programs with the grassroots community. The government also encourages adequate health budget allocation from both the Regional Budget (APBD) and special autonomy funds, coupled with regular progress evaluations.

The provincial administration believes that a collective commitment to improving community nutrition will foster a healthy, strong, and independent generation in South Papua.

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An average of 225 residents in South Papua are diagnosed with malaria daily, so we emphasize the importance of synergy among all parties to improve the community's health status.