Jakarta Vice Governor, Ahmad Riza Patria conducted Friday Prayer at Al-Istikmal Mosque, Tegal Parang, Mampang Prapatan, South Jakarta on this Friday (8/28). After that, he continued to distribute social assistance (Bansos) in form of staple food packages on the location.

Before the pandemic, PMI usually collects more than 1,000 blood bags in Jakarta

Bansos was provided from collaboration between regional-owned entrepreneurs (BUMD)s in Jakarta to the blood donors.

Jakarta Government continues to support Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) that  often holds blood donation activities during the pandemic.

"Before the pandemic, PMI usually collects more than 1,000 blood bags in Jakarta. But since the COVID-19 pandemic, it only reaches 100-200 blood bags in average or maximum 300-400 blood bags. In line with Governor's direction, we urge Jakartans to be actively involved in helping PMI by donating blood for people in needs," he said, as quoted from Jakarta PPID Press Release.

Besides, he appreciated South Jakarta Mayor, Marullah Matali for his efforts in assisting the blood donation activities in the region. Today, blood donation activity was carried out through collaboration between Student Regiment Alumni Association (IARMI) and Al Istikmal Mosque Foundation Chairperson, Juani Yusuf who also serves as Head of Jakarta Water Resources (SDA) Agency.

"Starting today, hopefully other mosques can also participate. Besides conducting Friday Prayer, we can also help the local community by providing staple foods for those who have donated their blood," he conveyed.

He also reminded people to implement health protocols in every activities, for example when carrying out blood donation activity. He expected more people can take this issue more seriously because COVID-19 has given many impacts in various aspects of life.

"We continue to remind  them to comply with health protocols, wear mask, wash hands, keep the distance (3M). Don't let us realize the importance of 3M after any of our family members have been affected by this outbreak. Again, let us act before the virus comes. Let's donate blood before we need blood," he said.

Meanwhile, South Jakarta Mayor, Marullah Matali conveyed, his side provided 200 staple food packages according to the number of blod donors at Al-Istikmal Mosque. He assessed that if every mosque could start doing the same thing, then the blood needs in Jakarta would be fulfilled.

For information, this activity was also attended by Jakarta SDA Agency Head, Juani Yusuf; South Jakarta Mayor, Marullah Matali; and South Jakarta Assistant for Administration and People Welfare, Sayid Ali and his staffs.