Jokowi Urges Public to Continue Using Masks

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo has officially revoked the policy on public mobility restrictions or PPKM today, December 30, 2022. However, people are still encouraged to comply with the health protocols against COVID-19.

"The use of masks in crowds and closed spaces must continue," said the President in a press conference at the State Palace in Jakarta, on Friday, December 30, 2022. "Public awareness of vaccination must continue to be raised because this will help boost immunity."

The revocation of the PPKM policy was decided as the pandemic is getting under control. As of December 27, there were reportedly only 1.7 cases per one million population and the weekly virus positivity rate was at 3.35 percent.

Additionally, the hospital bed occupancy rate was at 4.79 percent and the mortality rate was at 2.39 percent. "These are all below the standards set by the WHO," Jokowi remarked.

The decision will be then stipulated in the Minister of Home Affairs' Instruction which will be published in the near future.

Apart from asking the public to continue wearing masks, Jokowi underlined that government officials and institutions have to ensure health facilities are ready in all regions. Therefore, the central and regional COVID-19 Task Forces will keep existing to respond to the rapid virus transmission.

FAJAR PEBRIANTO

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