By: Ziral Aditya
The government is taking strategic steps to strengthen the network of health facilities as part of preparedness measures to face a potential surge in Covid-19 cases. Although the global pandemic situation has eased, vigilance remains a national priority. The approach taken is not a temporary response but part of a continuous agenda to maintain public health stability and prevent broader impacts should case numbers rise domestically.
The Ministry of Health continues to monitor the dynamics of Covid-19 transmission both domestically and internationally. In the 22nd week of 2025, seven positive cases were identified in Indonesia. Although this number is relatively small, anticipatory measures are still taken seriously. Head of the Ministry of Health’s Public Communication and Information Bureau, Aji Muhawarman, stated that the positivity rate during this period showed an increase compared to previous weeks, even reaching its highest point in week 19.
The government does not view the number of cases as the sole indicator but also considers global trends, including surges in neighboring countries such as Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Singapore. This regional context signals that the risk of cross-border transmission must continue to be closely monitored. Through a recently issued Circular Letter, the Ministry of Health instructs all healthcare facilities and stakeholders to increase vigilance and readiness to face various possible scenarios.
The circular includes preventive appeals. Health facilities are requested to actively monitor case developments and submit regular reports through the Early Warning and Response System (SKDR). The primary focus is on monitoring symptoms resembling influenza-like illness (ILI), pneumonia, and suspected Covid-19 cases. This system is a crucial pillar for early detection of surges, enabling rapid and measured response actions.
Strengthening the health facility network is also evident from the readiness of government infrastructure. Every service unit, from hospitals and community health centers (puskesmas) to public health laboratories, is directed to comply with protocols when facing potential infection cases. Health protocols remain enforced, including mandatory self-isolation for symptomatic individuals, antigen swab testing, and sample submissions to laboratories for virus variant identification.
Concrete steps are also taken at the country’s entry points, such as Soekarno-Hatta Airport, where the Quarantine Health Center has tightened surveillance protocols for international travelers. Head of BBKK Soekarno-Hatta Airport, Naning Nugrahini, explained that airlines are required to ensure passengers complete the digital health form (SSHP) before departure. Information from this form enables health authorities to detect potential transmission risks early, including identification of symptoms among passengers.
Upon arrival, further examinations are conducted for individuals showing symptoms of contagious diseases. If antigen swab results indicate positivity, self-isolation recommendations are issued, and information is forwarded to the health office at the passenger’s destination. This reflects synergy between the quarantine system and the network of health service facilities throughout Indonesia.
From the public communication side, the government continues to promote community awareness to resume healthy living protocols. This appeal serves as ongoing education to prevent complacency.
The government considers that simple protocols such as handwashing, mask-wearing when ill, and maintaining personal hygiene remain relevant in maintaining collective immunity. Moreover, early detection through consulting doctors when experiencing symptoms such as fever, flu, or sore throat is considered an important part of preventing virus spread.
Within the framework of national policy, these measures reflect a balanced approach between caution and efficiency. The government does not pursue excessively restrictive measures such as closing international travel but still advises the public to postpone non-essential overseas trips. If travel is necessary, people are reminded to comply with the health policies of their destination countries.
Strengthening the health facility network is an essential step not only to face Covid-19 but also to prepare the national health system for potential future outbreaks. The government demonstrates its commitment not to repeat the shortcomings experienced at the early stages of the pandemic. Now, with a stronger structure, standardized procedures, and data-based monitoring, Indonesia is better positioned to protect its people.
This approach affirms the active presence of the state in safeguarding public safety. Preparedness is no longer merely rhetoric but has become part of national health system governance. By reinforcing health service networks, prioritizing cross-sector coordination, and building public awareness, the government proves that protecting public health remains a top priority in every policy.
The author is a public policy observer
