PALEMBANG, South Sumatera: Indonesian Midwife Association
PALEMBANG, South Sumatera: Indonesian Midwife Association
chairperson, Mrs. Wastibar Moesbir, asks for security protection
for midwives in handling their duties due to mounting threatens
upon them recently. While Irianjaya branch had warned to pull
out all midwives from remote villages.
"I ask for security protection for midwives especially for
those who are placed in remote villages. As we know, many
midwives especially in remote villages or conflict-torn regions
handle their duties under mounting threats", told Mrs. Moesbir in
her opening speech for Indonesian Midwife Association workshop
in Palembang this morning, Sept 3, 2001.
According to Moesbir, some of them have claimed midwives
lives. "Yes, there were some cases especially in conflict-torn
regions, such as Aceh and Irian Jaya, which have claimed
midwives' lives", told Moesbir without mentioning exact number.
"That is why, we need security umbrella for midwives inhandling
their duties", Moesbir added.
Tuti, delegate from Irianjaya unveiled such case happened
recently in Wamena Irian Jaya. A midwife in Wamena died recently
because of arrow-attack. Following the case, Midwife Association
of Irianjaya branch had sent a warning letter to all regents to
pull out all midwives from remote villages. "We had told all
regents that we will pull out all midwives whenever they feel
under threats", told Tuti.
In response to demand, Minister Suyudi, promised to give
security protection for midwives. "Don't worry about security
affairs for midwives in remote villages. There are officers who
protect them. That is why, I hope midwives are able to develop
togetherness spirit. Even to be a permanent spouse (marriage
partner)", told Suyudi jokingly which was applauded from the
audience.
The workshop officially opened by Minister of Health Suyudi
this morning and will last until September 6. Some 553 delegates
from all over Indonesia take part in the event which will discuss
midwives profesionalism and quality service for people (33)