In preparation for switching to a new normal, I have called on the authority to check the preparedness of regions to control the spread of the virus
Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) monitored regional capability to control the transmission of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and their preparedness to seamlessly migrate to a new normal.

During a virtual limited meeting at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Wednesday, Jokowi highlighted that successful transition to a new normal will depend on epidemiologic parameters that could show the level of virus transmission in each region.

"In preparation for switching to a new normal, I have called on the authority to check the preparedness of regions to control the spread of the virus," Jokowi remarked during the meeting to discuss preparations to implement protocols to maintain productivity while preventing COVID-19 transmission to effortlessly usher in the new normal.

The head of state drew attention to the high rate of COVID-19 transmission in several regions, including East Java. Jokowi has given instructions to the military and police to station their personnel at crowded areas in East Java to ensure public adherence to the large-scale social restriction (PSBB) rules.

Moreover, the president has ordered the Task Force for Acceleration of COVID-19 Handling and local governments to increase laboratory testing for samples of COVID-19 patients, contact tracing, and quarantine patients to cut the transmission chain of the virus.

"We will implement this in provinces that continue to show an increasing curve," he revealed.

The president has sought a comprehensive review on the spread of COVID-19 in all Indonesian provinces.

The Health Ministry has issued a guideline for the control and prevention of COVID-19 at workplaces and industry to support business continuity during the pandemic.

"The protocols to adapt to this new normal should be widely disseminated to members of the public to edify them on maintaining physical distancing, wearing masks, washing hands, and gaining an understanding of the ban on large crowds," he stated.
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Translator: Indra Arief P, Sri Haryati
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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