Indonesia kicked off a nationwide free health screening program on Monday, aiming to prevent early deaths and improve public health. With a budget of 3 trillion rupiah ($183.5 million), the initiative is the country’s largest-ever health undertaking.
Under the program, all Indonesians will eventually be eligible for a free health check on their birthdays. The screenings, which are voluntary, include blood pressure assessments, tests for heart disease and stroke risks, and eye examinations.
Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin stated that the initial focus will be on children under six and adults aged 18 and over. According to the World Health Organization, leading causes of death in Indonesia include stroke, heart disease, and tuberculosis. This program aims to address these issues through early detection and prevention.
China Launches Satellites with New Long March-8A Rocket
China successfully sent a group of low-Earth orbit satellites into space on Tuesday from the Wenchang Space Launch Site in the southern island province of Hainan.
The satellites were carried by the modified Long March-8A rocket, which lifted off at 5:30 p.m. and placed the satellites into their planned orbits. This mission marked the maiden flight of the Long March-8A and the 559th mission in China’s Long March series of carrier rockets.
This launch represents a significant step in China’s growing space exploration and satellite deployment efforts, contributing to global communications and observational capabilities.
Malaysia’s Sarawak State Acquires Its Own Airline
Sarawak has become the first state in Malaysia to own an airline. The Sarawak state government reached an agreement with Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) to purchase its subsidiary, MASwings, as announced on Wednesday.
MAG stated that the transfer is expected to be completed by the end of the year. During the transition period, MASwings will continue normal operations without any disruptions to flight schedules.
The Sarawak government plans to rename MASwings to AirBorneo, transforming it into a full-service carrier. AirBorneo will initially focus on rural air services before expanding its operations further.
