If the number of COVID-19 cases are still on the rise for the next two to three days, then the emergency PPKM has to be extended through evaluation and refinement, so that the policy can be implemented more strictly.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - House of Representatives (DPR) member Anas Tharir has supported the government's decision to extend the emergency community activity restriction (PPKM) in Java and Bali.

The DPR Commission IX member remarked here on Wednesday that in the event of extension of Emergency PPKM, further restriction on field activities would be deemed necessary, so that the policy can effectively stem the rising number of COVID-19 cases.

"If the number of COVID-19 cases are still on the rise for the next two to three days, then the emergency PPKM has to be extended through evaluation and refinement, so that the policy can be implemented more strictly," Tharir emphasized.

The DPR member hinted at the possibility of the government mulling over the application of more extreme measures, such as implementing large-scale social restrictions (PSBB) in a stringent and simultaneous manner in Java and other areas in accordance with Law Number 6 of 2018 regarding Health Quarantine and Government Regulation Number 21 of 2020.

Tharir additionally pushed for more assertive and indiscriminate prosecution for increasing the effectiveness of emergency PPKM. One of the issues with the manner of implementation of the emergency PPKM so far is that scores of non-essential or important corporations are functioning normally.

"If there are still non-essential/important corporations that do not adhere to the law, then they need to be prosecuted based on the applicable law," he affirmed.

DPR Commission IX Member Nurhadi has backed the extension of emergency PPKM while emphasizing that any options that the government is contemplating on to handle the rise in COVID-19 cases had to be considered comprehensively.

"We support any government policy as long as it has been carefully reviewed, including aspects that may arise because of it. We will observe the policy," he remarked.

Moreover, Nurhadi emphasized the need for the government to diligently disseminate information on the objective behind applying the emergency PPKM and remind on-field duty officers to act strictly.

Nurhadi has sought detailed explanation from the government on the primary reason behind extending the emergency PPKM.

"It has to be accurate with no room for ambiguity. I still see in several areas that the people are confused on how emergency PPKM is being applied," he pointed out.

Nurhadi also called upon citizens to adhere to the emergency PPKM rule and to always follow the health protocols.

"Do not buy into hoaxes surrounding COVID-19 and be aware that spreading this news will cause further panic," he cautioned. Related news: Emergency PPKM emblematic of Constitutional obligation: spokesperson
Related news: Manpower Minister urges labor inspectors to monitor emergency PPKM





Translator: Boyke Ledy Watra, Fadhli Ruhma
Editor: Suharto
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