Strict Sanctions Await, Minister of Communication and Information Technology Requests Civil Servants Not to Violate the Ban on Nataru Leave

Kapanlagi.com - As one of the steps to control COVID-19, the government has mandated the postponement of leave in December 2021, including for Civil Servants (ASN). Minister of Communication and Information Technology Johnny G.Plate also said that ASN families and the general public are expected to support this policy.

"We hope that ASN and all parties involved in this policy can understand that this policy is taken solely to support the control of COVID-19 in Indonesia. We hope that the strict sanctions that have been prepared do not need to be given to any ASN," said Johnny, Tuesday (30/11/2021).

Based on Minister of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Regulation No. 13 of 2021, ASN are prohibited from taking leave and traveling outside the region in the same week as national holidays, both before and after starting from December 20, 2021. In addition, based on Minister of Administrative and Bureaucratic Reform Regulation No. 26 of 2021, ASN are prohibited from taking leave and traveling outside the region during the period of Christmas 2021 and New Year 2022, namely from December 24, 2021, to January 2, 2022.

Thus, ASN are not allowed to take leave and travel outside the region throughout December 20, 2021, to January 2, 2022. One of the policies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 will also be followed by odd-even rules in all tourist attractions that will be in effect from Operation Lilin 2021, which is from December 20, 2021, to January 2, 2022.

"This is certainly done as a preventive measure and handling of COVID-19 which has the potential to increase due to people's travel during Nataru," he said.

Continue to Ask the Public to Obey Health Protocols

In addition, the Minister of Communication and Information Technology said that the government urges all ASN to remain vigilant and disciplined in implementing health protocols. The government invites all parties to remind each other that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over. "Several rules are prepared for ASN in facing Nataru," he added.

However, Johnny explained that there are also several exceptions in the implementation of this rule, including for ASN on maternity leave, sick leave, and for important reasons. Civil servants in such conditions may be allowed to take leave. However, the Minister of Communication and Information Technology reminds that leave must still be accountable.

According to him, the prohibition on traveling outside the area is exempted for civil servants who reside and work in institutions located in agglomeration areas that will work in the office or Work From Office (WFO). As for civil servants who carry out official duties outside the area, they must obtain a task letter signed by at least a First Rank Official (Echelon II) or Head of Office.

"The government urges all citizens and families to encourage civil servants not to take leave and go without clear reasons," he said.

(kpl/jef)