Strict Sanctions Needed for Those Flouting PSBB: COVID-19 Task Force

Chairperson of COVID-19 Task Force answers reporters’ questions after a meeting, Wednesday (20/5). (Photo by: Agung/PR).

Chairperson of the COVID-19 Task Force Doni Monardo has called for a strict sanction to be imposed on those violating large-scale social restrictions (PSBB) and health protocols.

According to Doni, many do not comply with health protocols, for example, mass gatherings that are still commonly found during the pandemic.

“Large-scale social restrictions are still in force but many people flout the social distancing rules,” Doni said, Wednesday (20/5).

These past two weeks, according to Doni, are crucial to flatten the COVID-19 curve and at the same time to reduce risk level.

In the meantime, citing data from a ministry, Dono said that as many as 81% of the people want to immediately end the PSBB.

“It is impossible to lift the PSBB if the people are still not compliant,” he said, adding that those returning to capital Jakarta after Eid-el Fitr celebration in their hometowns will also become potential carriers.

To that end, Doni said he had coordinated with Governor of Jakarta Anis Baswedan to cope with the issue so Jakarta remains safe.

Doni also expressed hope that the Task Force in the province and regency/city throughout the country can work in synergy together with the National Police (Polri), the Indonesian National Defense Forces, and the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP) in implementing the rules.

To date, 124 regencies/cities are reported to have no positive cases; however, Doni reminded that new cases can emerge at any time in regencies/cities. For this reason, he said, as a precautionary measure against the COVID-19 spread, coordination with regional heads is essential.

“Regional governments will coordinate with the Central Government regarding the decision to reopen certain activities,” Doni said. (TGH/EN)

Translator: Muhardi
Reviewed by: M. Ersan Pamungkas