Australia is providing a package of up to A$2 million of medical personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, gowns, masks and thermometers to the Indonesian military (TNI) as part of the existing Defence Cooperation Program and funding.
Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said Indonesia and Australia are longstanding partners and friends, sharing a strong bond and a deep history of cooperation, particularly in times of need. “COVID-19 brings new challenges and uncertain times to both our countries. Like the Australian Defence Force in Australia, the TNI is playing a critical role in supporting Indonesia’s national response to COVID-19,” Reynolds said. “Just as Indonesia helped us during the bushfire crisis earlier this year, we are pleased to be able to help our Indonesian friends during these uncertain times.”
The Royal Australian Air Force will support the delivery of the PPE to Halim Air Force base in Jakarta. Defence is also working closely with the Indonesian TNI to share knowledge and lessons learned from our national responses to COVID-19.