Sukabumi Government Intensifies Zoonotic Disease Prevention and Response with Minimum Service Standards Implementation
Sukabumi, 24 July 2024 - The Directorate General of Livestock and Animal Health of the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), is pleased to announce the commencement of a programme aimed at implementing Minimum Service Standards for Priority Zoonoses in Sukabumi District of West Java. This collaborative effort, involving the Sukabumi Government, marks a significant step in enhancing animal and public health management practices at the district level. The launch event included a comprehensive workshop, resulting in the formulation of joint action plans. These plans are designed to ensure effective and uniform health management practices across the region, in line with the standards set forth in Ministry of Agriculture Regulation No. 39/2023.
The Minimum Service Standards for Priority Zoonotic Diseases, as outlined in the regulation, provide clear and precise guidelines for detecting, preventing, and responding to zoonotic diseases. These standards ensure consistent and effective health management practices nationwide.
Nasrullah, Director General of Livestock and Animal Health Services at MoA, highlighted his support for the implementation of the Minimum Services Standard for Priority Zoonoses. “Today’s gathering in Sukabumi marks a significant milestone in Indonesia's efforts to enhance zoonotic diseases prevention and response strategies with the launch of a pivotal pilot programme in Sukabumi district,” Nasrullah stated. He further emphasised that this initiative aims to implement the establishment of the Minimum Service for Priority Zoonotic Diseases, guided by the principles of the One Health approach. Moving forward, it is hoped that this pilot project will pave the way for developing a strategic plan to eliminate rabies on the island of Java.
Marwan Hamami, Sukabumi Regent, expressed his enthusiasm for this initiative. "We are proud to know that Sukabumi becomes the first district to implement this programme. By aligning with Ministry of Agriculture Regulation No. 39/2023 and Ministry of Home Affairs Regulation No. 101/2018, we have established rigorous standards for zoonotic diseases prevention and response," he said. Marwan hopes this initiative demonstrates Sukabumi’s commitment to proactive health management and community resilience.
The pilot programme in Sukabumi will focus on implementing a tailored action plan to address local zoonoses' priorities, as well as enhance collaboration between central and local government. It aims to establish robust protocols for zoonotic disease management, leveraging technical expertise and support under the USAID Global Health Security Programme.
Rajendra Aryal, FAO Representative for Indonesia and Timor-Leste, emphasised FAO's dedication to safeguarding animal and public health through this programme. "We strive to foster sustainable solutions that enhance animal and public health protection and strengthen community resilience, using the One Health approach through collaboration with local governments and related local stakeholders, including academic institutions and the private sector," Aryal elaborated.
Monica Latuihamallo, USAID Indonesia’s Global Health Security Program Team Lead, said “The United States is committed to partnering with the Government of Indonesia and other stakeholders to increase Indonesia’s capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to emerging infectious disease threats.”
Media Contact:
Alia Dwirahmani, Communication Specialist, FAO-ECTAD Indonesia. (+628128332036)