Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Cultural Affairs, Muhadjir Effendy, on Tuesday underscored the need for following the health protocols during New Year’s Eve celebrations to prevent COVID-19 transmission.

“Residents are urged to continue observing the currently enforced health protocols,” Effendy said in a statement issued here on Tuesday.

The coordinating minister also urged residents to be mindful of weather conditions and increase their vigilance against hydrometeorological disaster risks.

“We remind residents to remain cautious and vigilant considering the high rainfall intensity could increase the potential of hydrometeorological disasters,” he said.

Meanwhile, he affirmed that the government has taken actions and implemented strategies to ensure smooth mobility for residents keen to celebrate New Year’s Eve.

“We have readied various measures, per President Joko Widodo’s instructions, to ensure a secure and orderly New Year’s Eve celebration,” Effendy said.

A traffic management plan and basic foods and vehicle fuel have also been readied to accommodate residents’ movement during the day, he added.

“Besides those arrangements, we have no other special policies regarding New Year’s Eve celebration. Residents can enjoy the New Year’s Eve festivities, yet they must remain careful,” the coordinating minister said.

He added that residents’ active role in maintaining order and following the health protocols will be key to ensuring smooth New Year’s Eve celebrations in Indonesia.

According to the analysis of the Health Ministry and National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), as well as the recent Home Affairs Ministry circular, the COVID-19 situation in Indonesia has improved significantly, the minister noted.

Moreover, as the activities restriction enforcement (PPKM) status has been designated at Level 1 for all provinces in Indonesia, residents will be more confident about celebrating New Year’s Eve while adhering to the health protocols, he added.

Source: Antara News