The Government Has Started Reviewing Data On PSBB Implementation In A Number Of Regions

JAKARTA - President Joko Widodo has again given instructions so that the prevention of the corona virus or COVID-19 remains consistent. The regional government and the TNI-Polri are urged to work together to enforce discipline so that the outbreak can be handled until the end of May or early June is over.

The Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani explained that the government is currently reviewing the policy of gradually opening large-scale social restrictions (PSBB), because other countries have also started. However, this must be done with care not to cause widespread outbreaks.

Sri Mulyani said that the study on the easing of the PSBB policy was based on complaints from the public that they were unable to carry out activities freely. Moreover, the easing of the policy is considered to be able to gradually restore the national economy.

"Don't forget to make adjustments in all countries. Some can't wait to open it, after that they regret closing it again. That's what we don't want," he said, in a video conference, in Jakarta, Friday, May 8.

The former Managing Director of the World Bank explained that all government policies were taken based on data. So, the president will adjust the policy again if conditions are deemed to have experienced positive developments. For example, the growth of new cases of COVID-19 virus infection is already sloping.

"Once the data shows a positive development, it means that the adjustment of the policy must be made," he said.

According to Sri Mulyani, this is what makes the government be consistent in asking the people to protect so that there is no disease transmission in their environment. This is because if a group or some people do not participate in guarding it, the number of new cases will continue to increase.

"That's why, the President's decision is always mentioned. That's why meetings are held every week, the goal is to see the development earlier," he said.

Apart from that, Sri Mulyani said that the government will also look at various research developments. He explained that research is one of the information that is used as an evaluation material for the government to make policies.

The health factor is a major factor in policy making. However, the government also considers social, economic and financial conditions in making policies.

"We have to make steps that can maintain an uncompromising balance between health and humanity. But the socio-economic activities can gradually be restored," he said.