Unvaccinated People Barred from Traveling Far on Christmas, New Year Holidays

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - People who have not received the COVID-19 vaccine are prohibited from having long-distance trips during Christmas and New Year holidays, said the National COVID-19 Task Force spokesman Wiku Adisasmito.

The ban is regulated in the Home Affairs Ministerial Instruction No. 66 of 2021 on the COVID-19 prevention and control during year-end holidays.

“People who have not been vaccinated and cannot be vaccinated for medical reasons are prohibited from traveling long distances,” Wiku said. 

This is also in line with the long-distance travel requirements, which include a mandatory to have a vaccination certificate and a negative result of antigen rapid test taken one day before departure at maximum.

Local governments are also asked to tighten and supervise health protocols in places that potentially attract crowds, including churches or places of worship for Christmas, shopping areas, and tourist attractions.

“Christmas and New Year celebratory events in shopping centers are also prohibited, except for MSME exhibitions,” Wiku added.

From December 24, 2021, to January 2, 2022, the government bans cultural arts and sports events that potentially cause crowds. Town squares will also be closed on New Year’s eve.

Read: Puncak to Only Accept Vaccinated Visitors During Christmas Holidays

ANTARA