Security is among the issues being monitored by the KSP (the Office of Presidential Staff). The rise in unemployment, for instance, needs to be anticipated so it does not spark social and security conflicts
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Indonesian Government has taken anticipatory measures to deal with any threat to security or escalation of crime, especially ahead of the Ramadhan fasting month, in wake of the coronavirus pandemic.



"Security is among the issues being monitored by the KSP (the Office of Presidential Staff). The rise in unemployment, for instance, needs to be anticipated so it does not spark social and security conflicts," acting Deputy V of KSP, Jaleswari Pramodhawardani, said in a statement here on Thursday.



The KSP foresees a reduction in purchasing power and an increase in the number of laid-off workers as possible impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. A number of economic schemes have been launched to anticipate such contingencies, especially ahead of Ramadhan, Pramodhawardani said.



The office also anticipates a possible threat to security and escalation of crime, she added.



The KSP on Wednesday (April 15, 2020) conducted a coordination meeting with the Bureau of Intelligence and Security (Baintelkam) of the Indonesian Police on the potential for security disturbances during the COVID-19 pandemic.



The meeting was held to gauge the risk of crime escalation and to ensure stability of security and public order amid the pandemic.



The Baintelkam's director of State Security, Brig.Gen Dr. Umar Effendi, MSi, confirmed there is risk of escalation of crime that could disturb public order.



"The potential of anarchy and crime is always there, especially under such a circumstance. Therefore, we have worked on coordinating with the police in all regions to intensify surveillance," Umar said.



The police would stand on the frontline to ensure public security, he said. "We will use preventive and persuasive measures to maintain public order and security, and support the government in the distribution of the social safety net program for people affected by the COVID-19 pandemic,” he divulged.



So far, the police and military in 34 provinces have established public kitchens and distributed more than 600 thousand aid packages to the public. (INE)


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Translator: Rangga PAJ, Sri Haryati
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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