The Indonesian Government is wary of the likelihood of a third COVID-19 wave on account of the rising number of COVID-19 cases in 105 districts and cities, PPKM Java-Bali Coordinator Luhut Binsar Pandjaitan stated.

Despite a spike in cases, Pandjaitan, concurrently the coordinating minister for maritime affairs and investment, emphasized that the situation was still under control.

“The president continues to remind us all of staying vigilant and careful about the next wave. It is related to the surge in cases in 105 cities and districts throughout Indonesia. However, (the condition) is still well under control,” he noted after the limited meeting on Public Activities Restrictions (PPKM) here on Monday.

The minister noted that the alertness has increased, as the government had borne witness to fluctuations in the number of cases. Pandjaitan noted that the government will take steps to prevent virus transmission, although sometimes it is considered as being too strict.

“We see indications of ups and downs (in cases). For that, we need to be aware, so that we can make many efforts. Sometimes, (the policy) is too restricting, but we do not have a choice,” he noted.

Furthermore, Pandjaitan pressed for expediting vaccination, especially for the elderly. He deemed it crucial since the average death toll involved elderly people, with comorbidities or those who have not been vaccinated.

Bolstering vaccination is also required to lower each region’s PPKM levels, especially in Java-Bali. Decreasing levels in some districts and cities in Java and Bali will influence the mobility composite index to hit above the baseline, he stated.

“To this end, the president also reminded of several weaknesses in on-field monitoring. Its supervision must be immediately re-maintained and strengthened,” he expounded.

He pointed out that the key to the adjustment or relaxation of PPKM was real supervision management.

Source: Antara News