REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) is still evaluating a proposed decrease in import duties on medicines and medical equipment for the treatment of cancer in Indonesia. He admitted to have received inputs on the discourse.

"I received inputs on the regulations on import duties on medicines and medical equipment, but I am still considering (them) and will follow up on it," Jokowi stated after a gathering with the board of the Indonesian Childhood Cancer Foundation at the Bogor Palace here on Friday.

The head of state noted that he will urge Health Minister Nila Moeloek and Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati to discuss the matter. "Later on, the health minister and finance minister will discuss the matter, as this also concerns an important issue for the future of our children," the president remarked.

Jokowi lauded the Indonesian Childhood Cancer Foundation that had provided support to the government in solving problems related to childhood cancer.

"It is good if this type of foundation is present in all provinces to deal with the cancer problem, as it is one of the diseases we must face today," he pointed out.

There is still a ray of hope that children suffering from cancer would be cured, as long as there is early detection, the president emphasized.

"The Indonesian Childhood Cancer Foundation noted that more than 70 percent of children with cancer can possibly recover if their disease is detected earlier," Jokowi stated.

The president expressed hope that it would be possible to fully treat children with cancer.

"We expect that 100 percent cases can be cured, so that the children can have a future," he noted.

During a meeting with children suffering from cancer, the president urged them to remain optimistic and set the highest possible goals.

"I have a message for the children to have the highest possible ideals and harbor high spirits," he added.

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