“In the past, when PSBB implementation had not been relaxed, it was quite effective in controlling (COVID-19 transmission). After relaxing it, the number of cases increased. So, it must be tightened again,” Thabrany said here on Thursday.
He lauded the decision of the Jakarta Governor to re-enforce the PSBB to check the spike in COVID-19 cases.
The tightening of PSBB would certainly have an impact on the economy, but the government has a bigger responsibility — prioritizing public health above other interests, he remarked.
So, by prioritizing public health, it is hoped economic recovery would also be realized more quickly "lest people whose businesses are affected influence the government to not implement strict PSBB", he said.
He said anyone who disagrees with the strict implementation of the PSBB must be held responsible for the impact of the spike in COVID-19 cases on public health.
"If they are willing to (take) the responsibility, to pay the (medical cost) of someone infected with (COVID-19), go ahead," he averred.
The basic principle is that whoever is against the implementation of strict PSBB must assume responsibility for public health, he said.
In addition to strict PSBB, the Jakarta authorities must also impose a curfew to limit outdoor activities at night, he advised.
“In my opinion, Jakarta has to set a curfew from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. No one should be allowed to go out. Because (for instance) it could be people going out at night just for smoking. If you smoke, it's hard to wear a mask. While smoking, they usually have a chat because people seldom smoke alone. That's how transmission occurs,” he said.
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Translator: Katriana, Fardah
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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