PDIP Higher-up Clarifies Member's 'Anti-vaccine' Statement
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14 January 2021 06:51 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDIP) secretary Hasto Kristiyanto on Wednesday gave a statement regarding the 'anti-vaccine' stand that was announced by one of the party members, Ribka Tjiptaning.
According to Hasto, Ribka’s statement, in general, acts as a reminder for the government to put forth public health and safety in introducing public policies related to healthcare services.
He believed Ribka’s statement, which was made during DPR's hearing with the Minister of Health, acts more as a 'watchdog' for the government. "Ribka Tjiptaning asserted that the state must not conduct business with its people," Hasto wrote on Wednesday, Jan. 13.
Questioning the Quality of the Free Vaccine
Previously during the House hearing, Ribka Tjiptaning questioned the government regarding which vaccine will be used for Indonesia’s free-vaccination program, implying that she suspects the free public vaccines are sourced from the more affordable brands.
"I’m here to remind the State Minister that the state must not do business with the people. That is forbidden and I will be the most vocal about it,” Ribka addressed Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin.
Ribka also firmly stated her refusal against the Covid-19 vaccine and cited a statement by state-pharmaceutical firm Bio Farma, suggesting that the vaccine’s third clinical trial has not been completed at the time.
However, Ribka continued her statement by saying “I’m adamant not to be vaccinated. I'm already 63 years old and even if all ages can be vaccinated, I still refuse. Even if my grandchildren and children are subjected to a five million rupiah fine, as we live in Jakarta, I would rather pay that fine. I’ll sell my car or something.”
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