We are preparing Indonesian people for a ‘new normal’ life amid the pandemic.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The government’s spokesperson for COVID-19 handling, Reisa Broto Asmoro, urged the public to remain alert to a potential increase in the number of daily confirmed cases in the subsequent three weeks.

"The indicators of the composite index of the community activities restrictions (PPKM) enforcement increased in almost all regions," Asmoro remarked during a virtual press statement here on Wednesday.

The spokesperson noted that the PeduliLindung apps had recorded over one million public visits to shopping centers or malls to date.

Hence, she emphasized that regional governments should issue their approval gradually on community activities and mobility as well as the reopening of public facilities.

However, the policy still had to be followed through holding massive vaccination program, following strict health protocols, as well as implementing the responsive testing, tracing and treatment (3T) program to prevent a significant increase in COVID-19 transmission, the spokesperson emphasized.

"We are preparing Indonesian people for a ‘new normal’ life amid the pandemic," she stated.

Related news: Citizens must stay alert despite drop in COVID cases: minister

Furthermore, she informed that an evaluation will be conducted on a weekly basis to quickly respond to any changes regarding the pandemic’s impact on the people.

Hence, she urged the public to not harbor concerns about the weekly extension of PPKM.

Meanwhile, regions that showed improved performance in handling COVID-19 were allowed to open places of worship at a maximum capacity of 50 percent, Asmoro remarked.

In addition, outdoor sports facilities will be permitted in adherence to strict health protocols. However, the permission only applies for sports with individual players or involving groups, albeit with a maximum of four people and not involving any physical contact.

"A trial implementation will be conducted using the PeduliLindungi apps in four agglomeration areas in Java and Bali – the Greater Jakarta, Greater Bandung (in West Java), Greater Semarang (in Central Java) and Gerbangkertosusila (in East Java)," she remarked.

The government will also increase visitor capacity at malls and shopping centers to 50 percent next week. Furthermore, dine-in activities will be allowed with a maximum capacity of 25 percent, or two people per table, she noted. Related news: Jakarta loses red zone tag as coronavirus cases dive


Translator: Andi Firdaus, Uyu Liman
Editor: Suharto
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