TEMPO.CO, Bandung - West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil stated that he had submitted a proposal requesting the large-scale social restriction (PSBB) status to be implemented in cities of Bogor, Depok, and Bekasi as well as Bogor and Bekasi Regency (Bodebek).

“We have received the request letters from five regional heads, and then we have recapped and sent it to the Ministry of Health. Hopefully, a decision will come out in the next one or two days,” said Kamil as quoted from a release on Wednesday, April 8.

Kamil explained that the implementation of the strict physical distancing in Bodebek was expected to coincide with Jakarta that had already obtained permission to apply the policy as they cannot be separated from the capital as one cluster of the coronavirus transmission.

“This indicates that we want one frequency of a policy with Jakarta because data shows that 70 percent of the national COVID-19 cases occur in Jakarta Greater Area (Jabodetabek),” he added.

Kamil reiterated that the implementation of PSBB in his regions will follow Jakarta’s, which will kick off on Friday, April 10, for 14 days. “Whatever Jakarta decides, we will follow it, or we can give input for Jakarta’s consideration.”

Ridwan Kamil further stated that Bodebek are ready to implement large-scale social restriction. “All elements have been making preparations. For the security, the police have conducted simulations,” he concluded.

AHMAD FIKRI (CONTRIBUTOR)