Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Health and the Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) have forged a strategic collaboration to improve public health through a religious education approach.
In a statement on Friday, Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin noted that the collaboration will continue through promotive and preventive approaches that address people's physical and spiritual health.
He underlined that maintaining health is a joint effort to improve the quality of life in the community.
Sadikin noted that data from Statistics Indonesia show that the average life expectancy of Indonesians has risen to 74 from 72 years.
"By maintaining a healthy lifestyle, people can not only live longer but also improve their quality of life. This is a great investment," he remarked.
Nevertheless, the minister assessed that the situation also presents challenges, especially in ensuring good quality of life for older adults.
He expressed optimism that the collaboration between his ministry and MUI would lead Muslims to embrace and implement a healthy lifestyle as an integral part of their religious practices.
Sadikin emphasized three simple steps to maintain good health: following a healthy and balanced diet, ensuring adequate sleep, and engaging in at least 30 minutes of exercise five times a week.
The statement quoted Chairman of the MUI Executive Board Anwar Iskandar as saying that the ultimate goal of the collaboration is to realize a healthy and prosperous community.
"Religious teachings encourage us to always pray for good health. Rasulullah taught prayers for health and safety," he said, referring to Prophet Muhammad.
He also highlighted the importance of synergy between the MUI and the Ministry of Health, considering that the two institutions can reach people at the grassroots level, such as through community health centers and religious communities.
The collaboration is expected to generate health programs that meet the community's needs directly.
He also expressed hope that the collaboration would continue through promotive and preventive approaches addressing physical and spiritual health.
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Translator: Mecca Yumna, Raka Adji
Editor: Anton Santoso
