Tackling TB crucial for human resource development: PCO

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Indonesia's Presidential Communications Office (PCO) stated that tuberculosis must be addressed immediately to achieve a developed country status, as the disease claims lives and prevents Indonesian citizens from joining the global community and doing business.

PCO Head Hasan Nasbi made the statement at the National Launch of the Joint Movement to Strengthen Villages Alert to Tuberculosis in Jakarta on Friday.

Citing Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin, Nasbi noted that every four minutes, one person in Indonesia dies from TB.

"We are losing human resources. Meanwhile, we want to advance into a developed country. A developed country can only be achieved with high-quality human resources," he emphasized.

Apart from claiming lives, he said TB also hinders Indonesia's economic growth. For example, a TB-free certificate was required as proof to travel to Japan some time ago, which complicated business activities.

"This has impacted us as a whole country," he stated.

He explained that good education and nutritious food alone are insufficient; human resources must also be free from TB.

Nasbi described TB as a disease primarily found in underdeveloped countries.

Therefore, the government has made TB elimination one of the top fast-result programs in the health sector, alongside building quality hospitals in the regions and providing free health checks (CKG).

In addition, the government encourages community participation to support TB patients in fighting the disease by consistently taking medication.

"It is important to have community support. If you know someone who is affected by TB, do not leave them alone. Support them to take medicine," he reminded.

Nasbi also assessed that the government's efforts must be supported by assistance from various stakeholders to ensure the success of TB elimination.