TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Deputy Chief of Jakarta Legislative Council (DPRD), Zita Anjani, reminded Governor Anies Baswedan of the potential economic slowdown following the coronavirus outbreak, which has been declared as a global pandemic by WHO.

According to Zita, the impact could be felt by the people at the grassroots level soon. Moreover, the government extended the emergency period of this non-natural disaster until May’s end. It was even predicted to linger until after Eid homecoming up to June.

“If this outbreak is not controlled within the next one to two months, the price will pressure the people. Over demand, but the supply is hindered. Everyone fears of the virus. Many do panic buying in shopping malls, and now it will move to markets,” said Zita in a written statement on Friday, March 20.

She argues the national economy will extremely decline. So the readiness of regional heads will be highly tested in the next few months since the government has a huge responsibility to meet the people’s food needs. Besides, economic growth is estimated to be not over 4 percent.

“Rupiah exchange rate has reached Rp16,000. The impact can certainly be felt in the next few months. Just wait for the flow of imported goods to Indonesia, let alone we still import a lot of staple needs. This is quite dangerous,” Zita added.

Therefore, Zita suggested Anies Baswedan plan for market operations for the next months given the urgency to stabilize the price of basic commodities amid the coronavirus crisis.

"We want the governor to get ready for market operations. People will surely panic more as prices are rising. Do not wait for it to happen. Prepare it from now. If there are hoardings, catch the hoarders. We support it. This is for the sake of many people’s lives, national stability, so don’t fool around,” Zita underlined.

IMAM HAMDI