By: Naura Natasya
The recent surge in Covid-19 cases occurring again in several Southeast Asian countries serves as a reminder that the pandemic is not yet fully over. Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Singapore have reported significant increases due to new Omicron subvariants. Amid these regional dynamics, the Indonesian government has chosen a cautious approach without causing panic, while emphasizing the importance of health protocols and readiness of the national system.
Although the situation in Indonesia remains under control, anticipatory measures have been taken. The Ministry of Health, through the Director General of Disease Prevention and Control, Murti Utami, issued a cautionary circular directed to regional health offices, healthcare facilities, and related technical units. The letter emphasizes that virus transmission within the country remains low, as does the mortality rate. However, the potential entry of new variants from abroad must continue to be monitored closely.
Variants dominating neighboring countries such as XEC and JN.1 in Thailand, LF.7 and NB.1.8 in Singapore, and JN.1 in Hong Kong have become serious concerns. In Indonesia, the MB.1.1 variant, a descendant of Omicron, remains the most commonly detected. The Ministry of Health’s weekly reports note an increasing trend from week 17 to week 21 of this year, particularly in Banten, Jakarta, and East Java provinces, although overall case numbers remain low.
The Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Puan Maharani, believes that the rise in cases in the Asian region should not be ignored. The government is urged to be responsive and fully aware of the risks posed by cross-border virus transmission. Strengthening the national health system is critical, including enhancing testing, tracing, and booster vaccine distribution to ensure Indonesia remains prepared for even the worst scenarios.
Regarding border control, Puan highlights the importance of strict health screenings at international airports, especially for passengers arriving from countries with rising case numbers. The government also needs to ensure that all Indonesian representatives abroad actively provide protection and services for Indonesian citizens facing health risks.
Similarly, the Chairperson of Commission IX DPR RI, Felly Estelita Runtuwene, reminds the public not to become complacent after the pandemic subsided. She stresses that the healthy habits and disciplined protocols that became daily routines since 2020 must be revived. Felly views the virus threat as still real and warns that it could emerge in more dangerous forms if symptoms are underestimated or if people neglect their surroundings.
Felly also emphasizes the importance of building collective awareness. She urges people to maintain cleanliness, wear masks in crowded places, and seek medical consultation if experiencing symptoms such as fever or fatigue. These efforts not only protect individuals but also reduce the risk of transmission to others, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children.
Referring to past pandemic experience, Felly believes Indonesians already have a good understanding of virus prevention. However, this knowledge is ineffective without concrete actions in daily life. She also reminds that infectious diseases can be brought from abroad, including by foreign tourists, so maintaining cleanliness and strengthening immunity must remain priorities.
In response, the government has instructed all health facilities to actively resume socializing basic health protocols such as physical distancing, handwashing, and mask-wearing. This outreach is not only to address Covid-19 but also to prevent potential outbreaks of other rapidly spreading diseases.
Early detection is also a key focus. The government emphasizes that case reporting systems must operate swiftly and accurately so that medical responses and policies can be adapted as needed. Equally important is consistent and transparent public communication to prevent misinformation from spreading among the community.
Amid this caution, the government continues to stress that the public should not panic. Indonesia’s current situation remains safe with very low infection rates and a decline in active cases over recent weeks. Nevertheless, the government is prepared for various scenarios, including strengthening health services and medical logistics, should there be a significant rise in cases.
The synergy between government and society is crucial for successful prevention efforts. In situations like this, cooperation and shared concern for health are vital. While the government provides guidance, full implementation depends on the public. Individual discipline and social solidarity proved to be the most powerful weapons in facing the previous pandemic, and now the same spirit must be rekindled.
With measured steps taken and preparedness from the health sector and society, Indonesia is believed to be able to maintain stability in national health conditions. The government has shown a strong commitment to safeguarding its citizens, and with active public support, the current Covid-19 case surge can be faced calmly and responsibly.
The author is a contributor at Pertiwi Institute
