Indonesia Urges Public to Implement Health Protocols During Long Holiday to Prevent Covid-19

Jakarta – Facing a long holiday and increasing public mobility, the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenkes RI) appealed to the public to continue implementing health protocols, even though the Covid-19 situation in the country is still in a safe condition.

Head of the Ministry of Health’s Public Communication and Information Bureau, Aji Muhawarman, emphasized that until the 19th week of 2025, the level of virus spread in Indonesia is still within safe limits.

“Amid global dynamics, we want to convey that conditions in Indonesia remain safe. We continue to strengthen surveillance of infectious diseases, including Covid-19, both through the sentinel system and surveillance at the country’s entry points,” he said.

The Ministry of Health is also observing the increasing trend of Covid-19 cases in several Asian countries such as Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong. The variant currently circulating is a derivative of JN.1, which according to data does not increase the severity of symptoms.

However, the Singapore government noted that the increase in cases could be triggered by a decrease in population immunity.

Responding to this, Aji emphasized that there is no policy to tighten access in and out of Indonesia.

However, supervision at international entry points remains strengthened through the SatuSehat Health Pass platform.

“We encourage the public to follow developments in the destination country, comply with local health protocols, and postpone travel if they are in poor health,” he explained.

The Ministry of Health also reminded the importance of maintaining a clean and healthy lifestyle, especially during the holidays.

The public is advised to wash their hands regularly, wear masks when sick, and immediately get themselves checked if they experience symptoms of respiratory tract infections.

Booster vaccinations are also still recommended, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and people with comorbidities.

“The public does not need to panic, but vigilance remains important. We ensure that we continue to carry out early detection, reporting, and preparedness measures to keep the national situation safe,” added Aji.

President Prabowo Subianto also summoned Minister of Health Budi Gunadi Sadikin to the Presidential Palace to discuss developments in the COVID-19 case.

“(Regarding) Covid-19. More to that,” said Health Minister Budi.

He emphasized that although there was an increase in cases abroad, the circulating variant was still in the Omicron JN.1 subvariant group.

“So, there should be no need to worry,” he said.

Meanwhile, Plt. Director General of P2P Kemenkes, Murti Utami added that all health units were asked to increase vigilance, monitor case trends, and intensify education on clean and healthy living. *