Government Urges Public to Follow Health Protocols During Long Holidays to Prevent Covid-19
Jakarta – Facing the upcoming long holiday period and increased public mobility, the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia (Kemenkes RI) urges the public to continue implementing health protocols, even though the Covid-19 situation in the country remains under control.
Head of the Ministry of Health’s Communication and Public Information Bureau, Aji Muhawarman, emphasized that as of the 19th week of 2025, the virus transmission rate in Indonesia is still within a safe range.
“In the midst of global dynamics, we want to convey that the situation in Indonesia remains safe. Surveillance of infectious diseases, including Covid-19, is continuously strengthened through sentinel systems and monitoring at the country’s entry points,” he said.
The Ministry also noted the rising Covid-19 cases in several Asian countries such as Singapore, Thailand, and Hong Kong. The currently circulating variant is a descendant of JN.1, which according to data, does not increase the severity of symptoms.
Nonetheless, the Singaporean government recorded that the increase in cases may be triggered by waning population immunity.
Responding to this, Aji stressed that no tightening of access policies for entry and exit from Indonesia has been implemented.
However, monitoring at international entry points remains intensified through the SatuSehat Health Pass platform.
“We encourage the public to follow developments in their destination countries, comply with local health protocols, and postpone travel if they feel unwell,” he explained.
The Ministry of Health also reminded the importance of maintaining clean and healthy living behaviors, especially during holidays.
The public is advised to regularly wash hands, wear masks when ill, and immediately seek medical attention if experiencing respiratory infection symptoms.
Booster vaccinations remain recommended, especially for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with comorbidities.
“There is no need for panic, but vigilance remains important. We ensure that early detection, reporting, and preparedness measures continue to be carried out to keep the national situation safe,” Aji added.
President Prabowo Subianto also summoned Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin to the Presidential Palace to discuss developments regarding Covid-19.
“(Regarding) Covid-19. Mostly about that,” said Minister Budi.
He affirmed that although there is an increase in cases abroad, the circulating variants are still subvariants of Omicron JN.1.
“So, there should be no need to worry,” he said.
Meanwhile, Acting Director General of Disease Prevention and Control at Kemenkes, Murti Utami, added that all health units are urged to increase vigilance, monitor case trends, and intensify education on clean and healthy living.
