Press Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia on the COVID-19 Vaccines, Wednesday, 16 December 2020 at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta

Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

Today, I would like to inform the progress of the COVID-19 vaccine. Having received a lot of inputs from the public and recalculated state finance, I can say that the COVID-19 vaccine will be provided free of charge for the public. Once again, it is free of charge. There will be no charges at all.

Therefore, I instruct all cabinet ranks, ministries, institutions, and regional governments to prioritize the vaccination program for the 2021 fiscal year. I also instruct Minister of Finance to prioritize and reallocate other budgets related to the availability and free vaccination program, so there is no excuse for people not to receive the vaccines.

I also want to assert that I will be the first recipient to get vaccinated. This move aims to provide trust and confidence to the public that the vaccines are safe.

Lastly, I urge the public to remain disciplined in carrying out 3M health protocols, namely wearing a face mask, keeping your distance, and washing your hands for the sake of our safety.

I thank you.

Wassalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

Translated by Syarifah Aisyah
Reviewed by Muhardi