LABUAN BAJO — East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) Quarantine, through the Labuan Bajo Service Unit, is actively involved in formulating the Contingency Plan Document for Preparedness and Response to Extraordinary Events (KLB) and All Hazard Emerging Infectious Disease Outbreaks. This strategic step was realized through a cross-sector coordination forum held at Komodo International Airport, aimed at mapping out joint preventive measures in facing health emergency threats.
The contingency plan document is designed as a comprehensive guide for all stakeholders in carrying out integrated outbreak prevention and management. The formulation of this strategy is based on a compilation of comprehensive data related to real conditions, field situations, and potential health risks in the airport area. With a structured division of roles, the response to emergency situations is expected to run faster, more systematically, and minimize negative impacts on airport workers, passengers, and local residents.
NTT Quarantine representative, veterinarian (drh.) Kanda, explained the vital function of the quarantine institution as the first line of defense at the country's points of entry. Their primary role is to prevent the entry, exit, and spread of pests and diseases of animals, fish, and plants through trafficked commodities. He emphasized that border area protection cannot be done partially, but requires strong cross-sectoral synergy to optimize supervision.
Head of NTT Quarantine, Simon Soli, highly appreciated the initiative to draft this document. He assessed that mitigation measures against new infectious diseases must be prepared early through a solid joint commitment. Simon hopes that NTT Quarantine can consistently remain at the forefront of guarding national air transportation gateways, particularly in screening potential health hazards before they spread to the public.
The active involvement in drafting this contingency plan reinforces NTT Quarantine's commitment to continuously build close collaboration with all relevant agencies. Strengthening the biosecurity system at the airport is expected not only to protect the health of the local community but also to support the sustainability of Labuan Bajo as a safe and comfortable international tourist destination for both domestic and foreign tourists.
