TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - State-commuter line operator PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia (PT KCI) is set to impose a rule on April 12 requiring passengers to wear face masks in KCI-managed stations and trains. This is one of many attempts adopted by the operator to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

“Heading to that date, employees stationed in commuter line trains (KRL) and stations will constantly remind people of the importance of wearing a face mask,” said Adli in a written statement on Sunday.

The masks that KCI recommends are the two-ply reusable face masks made of cloth. However, PT KCI continues to encourage people to maintain a safe physical distance between passengers, consistently wash one’s hands, and to only engage in necessary travel.

PT KCI’s health and safety protocol come after Jakarta governor Anies Baswedan officially ordered three city-owned transportation agencies; Transjakarta, MRT, and LRT, to reject people who are not wearing face masks that intend to travel on the three means of transportation.

“They shall not be allowed to board public transport if they do not wear a mask,” said the governor in an official circular.

The mass-dissemination of the coronavirus safety protocol will be conducted from April 6 to April 11, before it is required starting from April 12. According to the data from the Indonesian Health Ministry, the virus that initially started in China’s province of Wuhan had already claimed 198 lives per April 3.

ADAM PRIREZA | M JULNIS FIRMANSYAH