Bamsoet Warns Indonesian People of New Variant of Covid-19

Regarding the current conditions in Indonesia, the positivity rate is below one percent and the cure rate is more than 96 percent.

However, these conditions should not make the Indonesian people careless.

"There are several things that can be done to prevent the third wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in Indonesia as part of defending the country, including limiting the mobility of foreigners and Indonesian citizens who come to Indonesia," Bamsoet said.

"This is especially for countries that are experiencing a spike in cases. Besides, we should selectively apply micro restrictions based on zoning risks, continue the vaccination program, obey health protocols, and implement a clean and healthy lifestyle," he added.

Previously, the Covid-19 Task Force issued a circular stating that Indonesia would temporarily suspend visas for foreigners who wanted to visit Indonesia if they came from or had visited a number of countries in Africa within the last 14 days.

The countries include South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Namibia, and Hong Kong.

The regulation aims to prevent the entry of the Omicron variant into Indonesian territory.

However, this regulation is exempted for diplomatic and service visa holders, foreign officials at ministerial level and above, as well as state visitors.