Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung emphasized that vaccination is a proven and effective preventive measure, serving as a cornerstone of the national health system.

He underscored the urgency of preventive actions against cervical cancer through regular early detection and HPV vaccination.

This statement was delivered during the "HPV Vaccination towards Jakarta’s 500th Anniversary" event at Lapangan Banteng, Central Jakarta, Tuesday (12/23).

The initiative, a collaboration between the Jakarta government and the Indonesian Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (POGI), was organized to commemorate Mother’s Day and mark the countdown to Jakarta’s 500th anniversary

"I warmly welcome this initiative by POGI to provide 500 free HPV vaccines as we approach Jakarta’s 500th year," he expressed.

Currently, cervical cancer remains a grave threat. Data reveals a harrowing statistic: one Indonesian woman dies every 25 minutes from the disease.

In response, Pramono called for the strengthening of preventive measures, aligned with the mandate of Law No. 17/2023 on Health. He specifically instructed the Jakarta Health Agency (Dinkes) to optimize cervical cancer prevention efforts across the city.

Further, the administration is committed to bolstering early detection and cancer management through several key programs. these include free health screenings at all public health facilities, HPV vaccinations for 5th and 6th-grade elementary students, and integrated palliative care services supported by the "Pasukan Putih" (white squad).

The Governor also introduced the Pasukan Putih , a dedicated task force assigned to assist residents—particularly people with disabilities and the elderly—ensuring every person has seamless access to healthcare services in Jakarta.

While HPV vaccination for adults is currently classified as an optional immunization, Pramono stressed that this free vaccination drive is crucial. It reinforces the message that disease prevention is a long-term investment in the health of women, families, and future generation.

Pramono hoped that the synergy between the Jakarta government and POGI would continue through the peak of Jakarta’s 500th-anniversary celebrations in 2027

"May this noble initiative inspire more stakeholders to strengthen cancer prevention, especially cervical cancer, to realize Jakarta as a healthy, empowered, and inclusive city," he added.

POGI Chairperson, Budi Wiweko, explained that the "Save Indonesian Women" (SPRIN) movement was born out of deep concern over high maternal mortality rates and cervical cancer cases—90% of which are preventable through vaccination and early screening.

"More devastatingly, an Indonesian woman loses her life to cervical cancer every 25 minutes. These are deaths that can be prevented," he continued.

Through the SPRIN movement, POGI is committed to raising public awareness regarding cervical cancer and other critical health issues. The program is also designed to support the government's efforts in improving the quality of Indonesia's human resources.

"Alhamdulillah (thank God), we'll expand this movement to 36 POGI branches nationwide, covering everything from pregnancy planning to cervical cancer prevention," he concluded.