Introductory Remarks of President of the Republic of Indonesia at the Limited Cabinet Meeting (Through Video Conference) on the 2020 National Examinations, 24 March 2020 at the Merdeka Palace, Jakarta

Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh.

Distinguished Vice President, Ministers who are in attendance.

In this afternoon’s Limited Cabinet Meeting, we will discuss the 2020 National Examinations. We are aware that the COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting educational process in the country and we have also implemented the campaign to study at home in order to contain the spread of COVID-19.

This current situation has affected the planned implementation of the 2020 National Examinations. There are 8.3 million students who are about to take the National Examinations from 106 thousand educational units across the country. Therefore, we have to make an immediate decision. There are three options available, first, the National Examinations will still be implemented, second, the National Examinations will be postponed, or third, the National Examination will be abolished.

In principle, do not let the decision taken violate the rights of 8.3 million students who are about to take the National Examinations.

I think that is all my remarks.

Thank you.