Daily Cases Increase And New Variant Of COVID 19 Arcturus, Menkopolhukam Asks People Not To Ignore Health Protocol

JAKARTA - The Coordinating Minister for Politics, Law and Security (Menkopolhukam) Mahfud MD appealed to people who are going homecoming not to ignore the health protocol (health protocol), following the new variant of COVID-19 Arcturus and an increase in positive cases.

"I think regarding the (obligation) vaccine, KAI has been notified through its application (and social media). I urge the public to be careful this past week considering that in various countries COVID-19 case has increased again, although it is not dangerous. Don't forget to get enough rest, take vitamins," Coordinating Minister Mahfud said as quoted by ANTARA, Tuesday, April 18.

Furthermore, Mahfud also sent the Bangunkarta train to Jombang, East Java. He previously also reviewed the readiness and services of PT Kereta Api Indonesia (KAI) ahead of the peak homecoming flow.

"Today I participated in the discussion and saw the activities of (PT KAI) from April 14 to May 2, and I saw that the service for homecoming for Eid by train was good. I see how the economy, business, and executive class services are comfortable, safe, and comfortable standards are guaranteed," said Mahfud.

"I entered in three carriages and I think everyone is anticipating what will happen," he added.

Previously, SOE Minister Erick Thohir was also present at Pasar Senen Station observing long-distance train services on D-4 Hari Raya Idul Fitri.

Minister Erick also reminded the public to complete the vaccination before returning home, and always implement health protocols in public spaces and transportation.

"Regarding the vaccine, I think the government has done two things. One, if we are in a public place or transportation we must use a mask, while if it is in an open space it is not a problem," said Erick.

"We see now the condition of the new variant abroad must also be anticipated. Of course, the government encourages those who haven't been vaccinated or who have only had the vaccine twice, we hope for the vaccine. Our success story is when the community and the government collaborate to fight COVID-19. Conditions have improved now, but we must continue to be vigilant by using health protocol," he added.

Meanwhile, complete regulations regarding vaccines for long-distance train passengers (KAJJ) can be seen in the Circular Letters of the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Health.