Despite the Pandemic Not Being Over, Government Emphasizes Not Banning Celebration of Prophet Muhammad's Birthday

Kapanlagi.com - Along with the National Holiday in commemoration of the Celebration of the Birth of the Prophet, the Government emphasizes that ceremonies are not prohibited today. This was confirmed by the Minister of Communication and Information, Johnny G. Plate, who still allows the celebration and commemoration of the Birth of the Prophet Muhammad.

However, the public is still advised to be wise in utilizing this policy. Especially with the ongoing pandemic, the public is urged to comply with health protocols.

"Discipline in health protocols must still be implemented to prevent an increase in COVID-19 cases in the future," said Johnny, Tuesday (19/10/2021).

Vigilance must still be maximized in celebrating the Birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Especially with the ongoing pandemic, there is still a potential for transmission if one is careless in celebrating.

"There is no prohibition on celebrating or enjoying the holiday commemorating the Birth of the Prophet Muhammad. However, the government requests the wisdom of the public to still adhere to health protocols and reduce mobility on that holiday," explained Johnny.

Minister of Communication and Information, Johnny himself, asks the public to comply with the Minister of Religious Affairs Decree No. 29 of 2021 regarding Guidelines for the Implementation of Religious Holidays (PHBK). In the decree, it is stipulated that PHBK in level 2 and level 1 areas can be carried out face-to-face with strict implementation of health protocols.

On the other hand, PHBK in level 3 and level 4 areas is conducted virtually. Event organizers are also advised to provide the PeduliLindungi QR Code. The government prohibits parades/processions in the context of the PHBK that involve a large number of participants," added the Minister of Communication and Information. The Minister of Communication and Information also hopes that local governments can monitor the implementation of health protocols during the Maulid Nadbi Muhammad SAW in their respective areas. The TNI/Polri apparatus is also asked to help local governments in monitoring community activities. Based on previous experience, the increase in community mobility is directly proportional to the increase in COVID-19 cases. This needs to be a shared concern to prevent it from recurring. Minister of Communication and Information Johnny reminds that even the slightest negligence can lead to an increase in cases in the coming weeks. According to him, the momentum of decreasing cases and increasing vaccination rates must be maintained. Moreover, several countries can still experience an increase in positive COVID-19 cases even though the vaccination rate is already high. "Neglecting health protocols and having the wrong perspective by assuming that vaccination will make us immune to COVID-19 should be avoided by all of us. Let's minimize the chance of COVID-19 transmission as much as possible," urged the Minister of Communication and Information. (kpl/jef)