VOI - Voice of Indonesia | RRI - Radio Republik Indonesia

In recent days, the number of Indonesian COVID-19 cases has continued to increase. It prompted President Joko Widodo to again ask the public to wear masks both indoors and outdoors. Previously, the government had relaxed rules related to the pandemic by allowing people without masks in open spaces.

After the Eid al-Adha prayer at the Istiqlal Mosque, Central Jakarta, Sunday (10/7), President Joko Widodo reminded that COVID-19 still exists. He also asked regional governments, especially in big cities with high mobility, to intensify booster vaccinations so that the COVID-19 outbreak in Indonesia can be kept under control.

After previously relaxing the rules related to the pandemic because the number of COVID-19 cases continued to decline, people's mobility seemed to be increasing. Economic activity in trade and tourism centers increased. Users of various modes of transportation also increased. However, as the number of COVID-19 cases increases, the government has begun to tighten travel rules again.

The Ministry of Transportation has issued Circular No. 72/2022 concerning Guidelines for the Implementation of Domestic Travel by Rail Transportation during the Covid-19 Pandemic, dated July 8, 2022. According to the regulation, Long-distance Train passengers who have not received a third vaccination or booster, must show a negative result of the RT-PCR or Antigen Rapid Test which is still valid at boarding time. This condition applies from departure on July 17, 2022. They are also still required to wear masks while traveling on trains and at stations.

The requirements for getting a booster vaccine for prospective passengers are also stated in several other circulars of the Ministry of Transportation for land, sea and air travel. In addition, the government also continues to urge the public to get booster vaccines and follow health protocols. The government's efforts are of course meant to provide maximal protection against COVID-19. Therefore, community support, namely by complying with all health regulations, becomes very important.