U.S. Embassy and PELINDO IV Build Capacity of Tarakan Medical First Responders

U.S. Embassy and PELINDO IV Build Capacity of Tarakan Medical First Responders. (State Dept.)

Tarakan, North Kalimantan – From 28 – 30 January, the U.S. Embassy Jakarta Force Protection Detachment and State-owned port operator PELINDO IV hosted a Medical First Responder Seminar (MFRS) in Tarakan, North Kalimantan.  Thirty participants from PELINDO IV, the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL), the Indonesian Water Police Unit (POLAIR), the Tarakan Fire Department, the Tarakan Health Department, the Tarakan Customs & Immigration Office, the Indonesian National Narcotics Agency (BNN), the Indonesian Maritime Security Agency (BAKAMLA), and other local law enforcement agencies attended the three-day seminar.

After two days of interactive instruction with hands-on practice, participants demonstrated the skills learned with a final practical exercise.  The diversity of the teams enabled collaboration with others serving as first responders.  All graduates received emergency first-aid kits with medical supplies donated by Spirit of America, a U.S. non-profit organization that globally supports security and stability through community-based initiatives.  The Tarakan Fire Department said their graduates will conduct medical first responder trainings for all its 64 firefighters with the equipment and skills provided during the seminar.

In addition to bolstering the capacity of local first responders to address emergency situations, this seminar reflects U.S. commitment to the U.S.-Indonesia bilateral relationship.  The Medical First Responder Seminar is one of many U.S. government initiatives that aims to deepen working relationships with Indonesian law enforcement and government bodies.  The United States and Indonesia are longstanding partners, and the U.S. is committed to strengthening our bilateral relationship in coming years.

Participants from PELINDO 4 and the Tarakan Health Department evaluating a patient. (State Dept.)