Bill Gates and Prabowo Subianto Unite to Combat Tuberculosis: Vaccine Trials in Indonesia

A crucial collaboration aims to develop a life-saving TB vaccine, with Indonesia playing a pivotal role in global health initiatives.
Bill Gates and Prabowo Subianto Unite to Combat Tuberculosis: Vaccine Trials in Indonesia

Jakarta - In a significant meeting held at the Merdeka Palace, President Prabowo Subianto and Bill Gates discussed the vital topic of tuberculosis (TB) vaccine trials in Indonesia. The collaboration highlights a strong commitment to addressing a major global health threat.

Bill Gates, through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is investing in research and clinical trials for a TB vaccine, which has progressed to the testing phase in multiple countries. Prabowo Subianto emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, "TB claims many lives—nearly 100,000 people die each year."

The Indonesian government is dedicated to reducing the TB mortality rate and is actively pursuing initiatives such as free health screenings. "Bill Gates has shown strong commitment and continues to support us in TB prevention, along with the development of a malaria vaccine," Prabowo remarked.

Gates confirmed that two locations in Indonesia have been selected as clinical trial sites for the TB vaccine. These trials are specifically designed to develop a vaccine suited for countries with high TB incidence rates. "We are conducting trials in Africa, India, and here (in Indonesia). We are really looking forward to the results," Gates stated.

The Gates Foundation's work extends beyond TB prevention, including vaccine development for pneumonia, HPV, malaria, and diarrhea. The meeting, which took place at the Merdeka Palace and lasted approximately two hours, involved several key Indonesian ministers and prominent business figures.



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