Keep The Health Protocol Although President Jokowi Says Masks Are No Longer Required

President Jokowi removes the mask. (Antara Photo)

President Jokowi announced that masks are no longer required for outdoor activities. However, indoor activities and public transportation are still required. Those who are in the vulnerable category, the elderly, have comorbidities, and are coughing and cold are advised to wear a mask when doing their activities.

For domestic and foreign travelers who have received complete vaccinations, there is no need to carry out PCR or antigen swab tests.

President Jokowi's announcement was warmly welcomed by the public. Understandably, two years of the COVID-19 pandemic has been quite difficult. Both the loss of life and economic impact. People are tired of all the restrictions.

Not surprisingly, when homecoming is allowed, there are 85 million people who celebrate the holiday in their hometown. And, it could be that the president's decision also reflects on yesterday's homecoming evaluation. No spikes. COVID-19 is controlled by the role of the community and government.

After Lebaran, several events were also held. Both national and international. For example, the international standard Java Jazz music concert or Formula E in Jakarta. Also at the end of the year, there is a G-20 world event in Bali. Not to mention the events in various regions. It also seems that what President Jokowi means must be clarified in more detail. Does the outdoor category include music concerts or outdoor events?

In fact, some neighboring countries have also relaxed the obligation to wear a mask outdoors. Including neighboring countries Malaysia and Singapore. Likewise in several European countries and the United States. Just like in Indonesia, for outdoors and high-risk areas, it is still recommended to wear a mask. Even in the United States, one of the biggest music concerts in the world, the Coachella Festival, was held where the performers included Indonesian singers Niki and Rich Brian.

But even though it is appreciated by many parties, including the DPR, the government, and also the public, don't be complacent, COVID-19 is indeed sloping, but it's not over yet. Even in some other countries, it is still high. One of them is in China and North Korea. Even Kim Jong-un, the leader of North Korea for the first time was seen attending the event wearing a mask.

Why should it be properly guarded? The sloping moment of COVID-19 must be maintained. This is the momentum of economic revival. It's time for people to return to their activities in peace. Entrepreneurs reorganize their businesses. It has been two years since Indonesia has been battered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The government must also ensure that the booster continues to run. Must reach the maximum target. The public should not be careless either. Remember, COVID-19 can come back again in another form with new variant mutations. Still have to be disciplined in implementing health protocols. Because recently, people were surprised by the mysterious acute hepatitis. WHO defines mysterious acute hepatitis as an extraordinary event. So don't take it for granted. Even recently in Europe, monkeypox has also spread.

We are free not to wear masks in open areas. But the habit of wearing masks is actually a new habit to maintain health. Habits that are actually not only done during a pandemic. If you have a cold or flu, it would be better to still wear a mask. This is good for the health of ourselves and the people around us. Because actually obeying the procedure is not only to prevent COVID-19 but also other diseases.