Decide on Micro PPKM Policy rather than Lockdown, President Jokowi: The Essence is the Same

Kapanlagi.com - The high number of positive Covid-19 cases in several regions in Indonesia that has recently occurred has caused concern among various parties, including the public. There have been speculations about the possibility of a lockdown, but the decision was ultimately not taken.

Instead, President Joko Widodo decided to implement Micro-scale Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM) as a solution to address the current pandemic situation. According to him, Micro-scale PPKM and lockdown have the same essence. Both restrict community activities, so there is no need to argue about them.

"The government has decided that Micro-scale PPKM is still the most appropriate policy to stop the spread of Covid-19 at the village level or directly at the root of the problem, which is the community," said President Jokowi during a press conference on the latest handling of Covid-19, broadcasted live from the Bogor Presidential Palace on Wednesday (23/6).

Micro-scale PPKM is Still the Most Appropriate Policy

According to President Jokowi, the government sees that Micro-scale PPKM is still the most appropriate policy in the current context to control Covid-19, as it can run without killing the people's economy.

He believes that if Micro-scale PPKM is implemented properly and actions in the field are strengthened, the number of cases can be controlled. However, the problem, President Jokowi continued, is that Micro-scale PPKM is currently not comprehensive and still sporadic in some places.

That's why the Head of State asks Governors, Regents, and Mayors to strengthen their commitment, sharpen Micro-scale PPKM, and optimize the Covid-19 posts that have been formed in each village and sub-district.

Main Function of Covid-19 Posts

President Jokowi emphasized that the main function of the posts is to encourage behavioral change among the public, to be disciplined in the 3M measures: wearing masks, maintaining distance, and washing hands.

"Discipline in implementing the 3M measures is key and strengthens the implementation of the 3T measures: testing, tracing, and treatment down to the village level," said the President.

The President also invites all parties to strengthen discipline in facing this pandemic.

"This pandemic is a real problem. It does not discriminate against anyone, regardless of their race, economic status, religion, or ethnicity. Everyone can be affected." This is a disease that does not see who we are. If we are not careful and disciplined in taking care of ourselves, we can get infected," concluded the President.

(kly/tmi)