"If we follow the directives of the president, (we are) now still imposing the large-scale social distancing (PSBB) measures. In the second stage, it will be preparations for the new normal," Fadjroel Rachman remarked during a visit to the editorial office of ANTARA news agency at Wisma Antara here on Tuesday.
Rachman noted that the key takeaways to adapting to the new normal were always wearing a mask, practicing physical distancing, avoiding crowds, and washing hands frequently.
President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has until now walked the talk in terms of preparing for the new normal, he pointed out.
"The president believes in being a role model (for the implementation) of the new normal by meeting people and setting an example," he stated.
He cited as examples the president's activities, including exercising, maintaining safe distance, and performing Friday prayers by abiding by the health protocols to serve as the role model.
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Jokowi had earlier appealed to Indonesians and businesses entities, in particular, to prepare to coexist with COVID-19 that would necessitate a new normal of social distancing and observance of health protocols.
The head of state affirmed that for the country fighting the pandemic since early March this year, finding ways to coexist with COVID-19 would not imply giving up the fight against the deadly virus.
In its place, it would involve conducting normal activities in a peaceful, safe, productive, and comfortable manner by adhering to the new health protocols to safeguard against the spread of coronavirus since currently, vaccines had yet to be developed against the infection.
The head of state highlighted the need to always prioritize public safety.
In preparation for transitioning to a new normal amid the lingering pandemic, the government is drafting protocols for various activities to ensure unwavering focus on public safety and health.
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Translator: Rangga PAJ, Fardah
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
Copyright © ANTARA 2020
