PALEMBANG (November 24, 2023) - The Ministry of Social Affairs collaborated with related agencies to provide cataract surgery services for the elderly Social Welfare Service for Persons in Needs (PPKS) in Palembang City, South Sumatra Province. The Ministry of Social Affairs collaborated with the Palembang City Government, Dr. Muhammad Hoesin General Hospital, YPP SCTV-Indosiar, and the Indonesian Eye Specialist Association (PERDAMI).

A total of 101 participants attended the operation which was scheduled to take place from November 24-25, 2023. The participants consisted of 51 women and 50 men. This number will continue to increase because the organizers continue to open registration and on-the-spot screening.

Patients from outside the city were facilitated with accommodation at the Ministry of Social Affairs' Technical Implementation Unit (UPT), Budi Perkasa Palembang Center. A total of 19 patients and 19 companions were accommodated at the Center.

"For long-distance transportation and accommodation, elderly individuals need adequate rest. Therefore, we first provide them with rest at our Center before escorting them home," said Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini at Dr. Muhammad Hoesin General Hospital, Palembang City, Friday (11/24/2023).

One of the elderly who received cataract surgery services, Agri Joni (53), a resident of Nagasari Muarakuang village expressed his gratitude to the Minister of Social Affairs.

"I sincerely thank the Minister of Social Affairs for assisting me with this operation. I truly appreciate the support," he said.