The Indonesian government has decided to relax COVID-19 restrictions for travel, large-scale activities and on public facilities with face masks no longer being mandatory.

National COVID-19 Task Force spokesman Wiku Adisasmito said COVID-19 trends in Indonesia had shown positive signs of being under control, especially as the World Health Organisation (WHO) had lifted the Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) status of COVID-19.

He said the task force had issued a new circular letter, dated June 9, 2023, with the latest and more relaxed health protocols for both domestic and international travels, large-scale activities and on public facilities, while residents are still urged to take personal care and responsibilities in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

According to the circular, people who are healthy and not at risk of spreading or being infected with COVID-19 are allowed to not wear masks.

However, COVID-19 vaccinations are still encouraged until the second booster shot or the fourth dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, especially for the vulnerable population such as the elderly and people with comorbidities.

People who feel unwell or are at risk of spreading coronavirus are advised to use face masks, as well as practice social distancing and avoid crowds.

Carrying a hand sanitizer and washing hands with soap and water are also still encouraged to prevent the spread of the virus, especially after touching public surfaces.

The use of SatuSehat, the health platform from the relaunched COVID-19 testing and tracing app PeduliLindungi, is also recommended to monitor personal health.

Meanwhile, operators and organisers of transportation means, public facilities and large-scale activities together with regional administrations should take preventive steps to control the spread of COVID-19.

Wiku said while the World Health Organization (WHO) had not yet declared that the COVID-19 pandemic was over, Indonesia must prepare for the disease’s transition into an endemic with the latest health protocols that emphasised personal and collective responsibility in preventing the spread of COVID-19.

As of June 9, Indonesia recorded 190 new daily confirmed cases, bringing the total tally of COVID-19 cases to 6,809,821 since the first case was confirmed on March 2, 2020./.

Source: Vietnam News Agency