IMEI Regulation Remains Valid on April 18 despite Pandemic
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14 April 2020 08:40 WIB
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The enactment of the regulation on the identification of cell phones through International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) would not be postponed despite the increasing cases of coronavirus infections. Communication and Information Minister Johnny G. Plate ensured that the policy will still be valid on the initial schedule, on Saturday, April 18.
“Black market phones with illegal IMEI that have been used so far will be allowed for use. But the new ones are prohibited and the registrations will automatically be rejected,” said Johnny in a statement in Jakarta, Monday, April 13.
Besides, the whitelist system will immediately take effect, and the EIR (Equipment Identity Register) of each cellular operator can be activated. The Central EIR at the Industry Ministry can also be used on April 18.
This decision was made after cross-ministerial talks, including the Ministry of Communication and Information, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Industry, the Ministry of Trade, and cellular operators.
According to Johnny, the regulation was aimed at protecting the domestic handheld industry. “To maintain the state revenue and provide protection to consumers from handhelds that do not meet safety standards,” he said.
Previously reported, the regulation on the identification of cell phones through IMEI had been passed on October 18, by three ministers, namely Industry Minister Airlangga Hartarto, Trade Minister Enggartiasto Lukita, and Communication and Informatics Minister Rudiantara.
FAJAR PEBRIANTO