TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Jakarta Deputy Governor Ahmad Riza Patria confirmed that people who refuse to undergo the Covid-19 vaccination will be fined Rp5 million.

The sanction will be imposed on residents who are registered and eligible for the vaccine but are reluctant to be inoculated. Riza explained that the vaccine against coronavirus infection is vital and different from other vaccines, such as polio.

He emphasized that vaccination is not solely aimed at creating one’s immunity, but also for the community. “If I refuse to be vaccinated, it doesn't only affect me but also my spouse, children, parents, families, communities in the city, and even others who live far from me,” said Riza, making an example on Wednesday, February 17.

The fine of Rp5 million is relative, he opined. For some, the amount is huge and considered a burden, while for high-class people, the fine is not much. However, Riza underlined that the public should not see the amount.

“This regulation was passed not to impose sanctions or raise money, let alone make people poor. The sanction is set to ensure that we all obey the existing provisions,” he said.

The Deputy Governor, who had been exposed to the disease, went on to say that the coronavirus-related bylaws issued by the city administration are aimed at building public awareness to keep applying health protocols. “Consider it a necessity for personal gain,” Riza added.

The fine is stipulated in article 30 of the Regional Regulation or Perda No. 2 of 2020 on the Covid-19 handling. President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo had also issued a Presidential Regulation on the termination of social assistance for citizens refusing the vaccine.

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ADAM PRIREZA | IMAM HAMDI