Jokowi Asks Regional Heads To Evaluate PSBB

President Joko Widodo during a video conference (Photo: setkab.go.id)

JAKARTA - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) has asked for the implementation of Large-Scale Social Restrictions (PSBB) in a number of areas to be carried out strictly and remain effective amid the spread of COVID-19.

"Regarding the implementation of the PSBB in 4 Provinces and 22 districts / cities. I want to ensure that this is strictly and effectively implemented," said Jokowi when opening a limited meeting on handling COVID-19 which was broadcast on the Cabinet Secretariat YouTube, Monday, April 4.

In implementing the PSBB, Jokowi also asked regional heads to have clear targets. The number of samples and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests carried out, he said, must have a target so that the spread can be known and tracing contact can be carried out.

The former governor of DKI Jakarta, also highlighted the issue of self-isolation by the community. He asked regional heads to monitor the implementation of this independent isolation. This is because there are still many positive COVID-19 patients who can be discharged from the hospital and patients under surveillance (PDP) who can wander.

"I see that there are those who have been positive that they can still run from the hospital and those who are PDP are still doing activities here and there," said Jokowi, adding that seniors should also get attention from the central government because they are included in the vulnerable group.

Through this limited meeting, Jokowi also asked each region to evaluate the PSBB in order to evaluate any shortcomings. Moreover, currently there are several regions that have extended the implementation period of the PSBB.

"This needs evaluation, which ones are too overly applied, too far and which ones are still slack. This evaluation is important, so that we can make improvements in regencies or provinces that carry out PSBB," he explained.

Previously reported, the total positive cases of COVID-19 had reached 11,192 people. For the number of cases recovered, it is currently surpassing those of death cases. There were an additional 211 patients recovered, bringing the total to 1,876 patients. Meanwhile, 14 patients died, bringing it to 845 patients.