Statement of President of the Republic of Indonesia on Omicron Surge, at Bogor Presidential Palace, West Java Province, January 18, 2022

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In light of the spike in COVID-19 cases triggered by the Omicron variant, I call on the public to stay vigilant but no need to overreact. We need to be careful, be vigilant, but we must not cause fear and panic.

Various studies including reports from the World Health Organization have unveiled that the Omicron variant is more easily transmitted yet cause milder symptoms. Patients infected with this variant generally can recover without hospitalization. However, once again, we have to stay vigilant but do not panic.

Therefore, for those without urgent matters, better stay home and refrain from doing activities in crowded areas. And for those who work from home, go on with it. I also urge the public to refrain from travelling overseas if there are no important and urgent matters.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I will always remind you to always wear a mask, maintain physical distancing, and wash your hands. The point is to follow health protocols with discipline.

Another important point during this pandemic is vaccination. For those who haven’t been vaccinated yet, do it immediately. For those who have received the first vaccine (dose), get the second dose immediately. For those who have had two vaccines, seek a booster vaccine immediately. Vaccine is free of charge for the safety of us all.

That concludes my statement.

I thank you.
Wassalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

(EST/EP)