Djarum's Boss Rejects PSBB, YLKI: He Doesn't Want His Business to be Interrupted

JAKARTA - Chairperson of the Indonesian Consumers Foundation (YLKI) said that the PSBB in Jakarta is the object of debate among elites. In dealing with the epidemic, the lives and safety of citizens should be the priority.

"And even more absurd is the rejection of PSBB by the boss of PT Djarum, Budi Hartono (BH). He sent a letter to President Joko Widodo. BH's rejection of the PSBB implementation reflects his business interests. Especially the addictive substance (cigarette) business," said Tulus in a written statement, Monday 14 September.

Tulus said that the high number of COVID-19 patients should be a strong warning for all parties. So far, there has been something wrong with the way of handling and controlling the outbreak in Indonesia. Especially in DKI Jakarta.

The reason was that the government was too hasty in opening the economic sector. Meanwhile, the control aspect didn't meet the WHO requirements. For example, a positive rate below 5%.

"The next cause is the level of community compliance. It is still weak, especially in using masks and maintaining distance," said Tulus.

Therefore, this PSBB period must be the last gamble to control the COVID-19 outbreak in Jakarta. Jakartans and all Indonesian people are tired of the “prison” due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

"All parties should work hand in hand to overcome this outbreak. If the Jakarta PSBB fails as an instrument to control the COVID-19 outbreak, it will have an escalation impact on epidemic control at the national level. As a result, the national economy's pulse will worsen," he explained.

Furthermore, Tulus said, the people and citizens of Jakarta should comply with the prescribed health protocols. Jakarta residents must not be selfish. We can't only concern with our interests and safety.

The problem with the COVID-19 outbreak is a collective safety issue, not individual safety. Likewise, with the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government and related officials to consistently and systematically carry out socialization and law enforcement efforts for those who violate it.

"Don't compromise to protect the safety of residents. Don't dream that economic growth will skyrocket if the aspects of controlling the COVID-19 outbreak are still messy like now," he said.