Komnas HAM Demands Govt Transparency on Coronavirus

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The National Commission on Human Rights or Komnas HAM has urged the government to widely expose data about the new coronavirus or COVID-19 infection cases in Indonesia since the public requires valid information to eschew baseless news. 

“[The government should] provide and inform valid information related to transmission precautionary and rapid handling measures when there is a positive case,” said Komnas HAM commissioner Amiruddin in a written statement on Friday, March 13.

Amir also demanded the government prepare health facilities and medical workers across the country. Given the vast territory of the archipelago, he added, the facilities must be affordable and able to reach the community.

Additionally, Amir opined that the government’s unity of direction and leadership in the wake of the virus outbreak were also vital to soothe the public panic over vague information.

According to him, panic swept through the community as their health was threatened by the novel coronavirus. Moreover, unclear information is widely circulating and the government’s efforts to combat the disease is not convincing.

“To calm the community and make them rational in facing the COVID-19 threat, Komnas HAM calls on the government to carry out real actions to protect and fulfill the public rights for health care,” Amir concluded.

M ROSSENO AJI