Social Minister Encourages Social Pillars in COVID-19 Prevention Movement

JAKARTA (March 20, 2020) - Minister of Social Affairs Juliari P. Batubara encourages the social pillars to be the pioneers in preventing the spread of the corona virus in their respective assignments. They can work together with regional governments or with other social potentials.

"I request that the social pillars become the motor and the forerunners of the corona virus spread prevention movement. In their duties, they are in direct contact with the community. So they are the vanguard of the Ministry of Social Affairs, "said the Minister of Social Affairs in Jakarta, Friday (03/20/2020).

The social pillar is community-based volunteers partnering with the Ministry of Social Affairs in implementing various social welfare development agendas. They are Community Social Workers (PSM), District Social Welfare Workers (TKSK), Youth Organization (KT), Disaster Preparedness Cadet (Tagana), and Social Welfare Institutions (LKS) from all over the country.

According to the Minister, their role in handling social problems has been proven. By synergizing with the regional government and related local agencies, the social pillar has succeeded in finding alternative solutions to the various challenges faced by the nation.

"All this time they have contributed in various efforts to manage and handle social problems such as natural disasters, social disasters, and various ups and downs on both local and national level. I am sure they have dealt with various situations and challenges. So in the face of a corona virus pandemic, I too believe they can also take a positive role, "said the Minister.

Social Minister believes, with long experience, social pillars can also take meaningful roles. Social pillars are considered to understand their respective regions. On the other hand, some of them are partners for beneficiaries.

"They can socialize various government policies related to the acceleration of eradicating the corona virus or the beneficiaries they assist at both central and regional levels. They can also arouse public awareness to obey the government's recommendation to stay at home, "said the Minister.

Of course, in carrying out these appeals, they need to be cautious and pay attention to the safety and health of both self and environment. "For the socialization of measures to prevent the spread of viruses, do not forget the provisions outlined. For example, by paying attention to social distancing, wearing personal protection, such as masks, and so on, "said the former Chairperson of the Indonesian Motorcycle Association (IMI).

In addition, said the Minister, the social pillars can also synergize with regional governments, community leaders, and local social potential, by encouraging various programs or movements that accelerate the eradication of the corona virus.

"Together, we can spray disinfectant for public facilities, houses of worship, or other places that need it. The point is I want the social pillar become active in this trials faced by the government, "said the father of two.

Bureau of Public Relations

Indonesian Ministry of Social Affairs