Social, Movement Restrictions Still Reasonable, President Jokowi Says

President Jokowi gives an introductory remarks at a limited meeting through a video conference from the Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java Province, Tuesday (31/3). (Photo by: Ibrahim/PR).

Social and movement restrictions that the Government imposes amid the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak are still at a reasonable stage, President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo has said.

“As of now, we will not impose lockdown and the economy will run as usual,” the President said in Galang Island in Riau Islands province, Wednesday (1/4).

According to the President, lockdown means the people cannot leave their house, all modes of transportation systems such as buses, private vehicles, motorcycles, trains, or planes cannot operate, and office activities also have to stop.

Citing examples from 202 countries that have implemented lockdown, President Jokowi pointed out the policy has its advantages and disadvantages.

The Government’s decision not impose lockdown, he added, is also adjusted to the conditions in Indonesia by taking into account geographical and demographic aspects, cultural aspects, and the country’s fiscal capacity.

The Head of State also said that the Government is tackling with the outbreak in accordance with prevailing laws and regulations, adding that the Central Government and regional governments must be on the same page in addressing this issue.

Regarding Idul Fitr annual exodus (mudik), the President expressed hope that village heads can monitor the practice of self-isolation in their respective regions.

“We hope that social security nets, social protection, social assistance are prepared in the villages,” he added.

President Jokowi also called on the people to continue practicing physical distancing.

“And do regularly wash your hands. Don’t touch nose, mouth or eyes to prevent the virus transmission,” he said.

Regarding the operation of COVID-19 Emergency Hospital in Galang Island, the President said that it will start operational on Monday (6/4) at the latest.

“There is a 3-4 day delay in its operation due to technical constraints,” he said.

In addition to the the emergency hospital in Galang Island, the Government has also prepared towers at Wisma Athlete as an emergency hospital to treat COBID-10 patients.

“We’ve prepared 2,400 beds at Wisma Atlet. Alhamdulillah only 400 of the beds have been used thus far. The facilities in this hospital (in Galang Island) include 360 ​​beds, 20 ICU rooms and 30 non-ICU rooms. We hope these will not be used as well,” the President said, adding that the hospital will later on be used for infectious diseases and research. (UN/EN)

Translator: Muhardi
Reviewed by: M. Ersan Pamungkas