Contradictions Of Government Policy: Music Concerts And Sports Events Are Allowed, Mass Iftar Is Prohibited?

Jokowi bans state civil apparatus to hold mass iftar event in the month of Ramadan 1444 H or 2023. (SPC)

The prohibition on mass iftar or breaking the fast together for state officials and the state civil apparatus (ASN) is a hot topic of discussion among Indonesian people. This ban was carried out by President Joko Widodo, one of which was an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

In fact, the prohibition of mass iftar does have good intentions in reducing the risk of spreading COVID-19. However, its implementation requires more effective communication to avoid doubts and confusion among the public. This can also minimize ignorance and confusion among state officials and state civil apparatuses.

On the other hand, this policy raises questions about music concerts and sporting events which are still permitted, and the imposition of restrictions on community activities or PPKM which are revoked. Even though there has been a health protocol policy during music concerts and sports events, there is still a risk of spreading COVID-19, especially if the number of spectators in one place is very large. In addition, the revocation of PPKM is also an important consideration because it can create crowds and increase the risk of spreading COVID-19.

Maybe someone is wondering, is the logic behind the ban on mass iftar strong enough? When looking at data related to the spread of COVID-19, we can find that at the beginning of the pandemic, many cases of COVID-19 occurred after events that involved many people, such as music concerts, sporting events, weddings, and family events. However, taking into account the fact that currently PPKM has been repealed, and other activities such as music concerts and sporting events are permitted, banning mass iftar seems inconsistent and unfair.

On the contrary, this prohibition has created confusion and unrest among the people. Some argue that the ban on mass iftar is not only excessive, but also tends to discriminate against Muslims. Criticism was also leveled by some observers who stated that the ban on mass iftar was confusing and had no solid foundation.

Meanwhile, several state officials and politicians also gave their views regarding the ban on mass iftar. There are those who agree with the policy, such as the Governor of Central Java, Ganjar Pranowo. However, there were also those who objected, such as the Crescent Star Party (PBB) politician, Yusril Ihza Mahendra, who suggested that the ban be lifted.

President Joko Widodo's ban on mass iftar has also caused different reactions among the public. There are those who agree and some who do not agree with the policy. Those who disagree with this policy feel that the prohibition on breaking the fast together is inappropriate and tends to hinder religious activities.

However, there are also parties who agree with this policy because they see the impact of mass iftar activities which often cause crowds and violations of health protocols. Parties who agree with this policy also consider that iftar activities can be carried out virtually or at their respective homes with their closest family members.

So, the decision to prohibit gatherings when breaking the fast together for state officials and ASN has good intentions in preventing the spread of COVID-19. However, this policy must also be viewed from various perspectives and must be accompanied by effective communication to avoid confusion and ignorance among the public. Apart from that, this policy must also be consistent with other policies related to health protocols, such as music concerts, sporting events, and PPKM which was revoked.

Returning to the issue of music concerts and sporting events which are still permitted, it is possible that this policy was issued for economic reasons, especially after the tourism and entertainment sector suffered huge losses due to the pandemic. However, the Government should ensure that every policy issued is consistent and fair, and does not favor only one party. If the intention is for officials or state civil apparatuses not to hold a mass iftar using State Budget (APBN) or Local Government Budget (APBD) funds so that they are not wasteful and seem arrogant, that's fine. Just make sure the delivery method is clear. And, maybe digital footprints can also be traced if President Jokowi and also officials in the government recently attended events that involved large crowds. In fact, at the beginning of the month of Ramadan, officials from one of the political parties held an iftar which was attended by high-ranking political party officials, some of whom were still state officials.