Fund, equip institutions

THE world is in panic mode and has suffered casualties in thousands due to the coronavirus pandemic.
There are many scientific and medical truths and views on the origin and spread of this virus.
One fact is that people have died, are dying and will die from this virus unless a drug or a vaccine is developed soon.
In the meantime, we have to take preventive measures as advised by many learned people and responsible organisations.
The Government under the leadership of the Prime Minister James Marape should take a holistic approach.
I hope the Government’s coronavirus containment plans will be well coordinated and executed with minimal setbacks taking into account all mitigating factors along the way.
The first confirmed case of the virus was announced on Friday (March 20) and this is not good news for PNG.
We are culturally different with eight hundred plus languages and reactions to this news will come by this many.
The PM’s announcement on the first confirmed case of the coronavirus on NBC Radio last Friday night was very sad.
If I heard him correctly, he said “coronavirus or whatever”.
He encouraged our local farmers and gardeners to bring their produce to the city markets to sell because the coronavirus had created an opportunity.
Did I hear these from the CEO of an independent state and do they make any sense?
I guess this is the first from the eight hundred plus views.
We expect more to come soon.
Covid-19 is just another one of the flu viruses and we should remain calm and cooperate with the government, medical organisations and other stakeholders in the execution of contingency plans.
Personal hygiene and discipline will go a long way in sustaining one’s life during this time.
My challenge to the Government, universities and Research Institutions such as the PNG Institute of Medical Research and Naqia should be adequately funded annually beginning next year to do what they have to do.
We don’t have to wait for another virus or bug to jump up and down. We must do it now.
Please control this situation with minimal chaos and panic.

Gomatultul,
Duran Farm