TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The government of Australia on July 24 handed over 100 non-invasive ventilators in the AUD2 million (IDR19.4 billion) critical medical and laboratory package assistance to support Indonesia’s COVID-19 response and recovery.

This medical equipment will help Indonesia on the front-line of its COVID-19 response and is part of Australia’s commitment to working with Indonesia to support its immediate health, humanitarian, and economic response and recovery needs.

These ventilators and medical supplies are part of Australia’s AUD21 million COVID-19 response package to Indonesia, in addition to the redirection towards COVID-19 activities of nearly AUD45 million from the AUD298.5 million Indonesia development program.

Australia’s Ambassador to Indonesia, Gary Quinlan, said Australia stands alongside Indonesia in the fight against COVID-19.

“The pandemic has profoundly affected the Indo-Pacific region and Australia will continue to work in partnership with Indonesia to minimize the impact of COVID-19,” Ambassador Quinlan said.

“The 100 non-invasive ventilators, associated medical supplies and laboratory equipment, delivered to Indonesia’s National Taskforce, will help front-line medical staff provide life-saving assistance and support laboratory staff with essential supplies.”

"On behalf of the Indonesian government, we are very appreciative and grateful for the assistance from the Australian Government in accelerating the handling of COVID-19 in Indonesia," said Doni Monardo, the Head of the COVID-19 Handling Task Force.

As the pandemic continues to evolve, the strength of Australia’s partnership with Indonesia means both countries will meet health and economic challenges together and build a stronger future for the nations' neighborhood.

Read: Australia Tightens Restrictions as COVID-19 Cases Top 10,000

AUSTRALIAN EMBASSY MEDIA RELEASE