Breaking News: Indonesia Drops Vaccination Requirements for Entry Effective June 9, 2023! A New Phase in COVID-19 Transition
In a significant move, the Indonesian government has decided to drop vaccination requirements for entry into the country. The decision was outlined in an official letter issued by the COVID-19 Handling Task Force, highlighting the changing dynamics of the COVID-19 pandemic and the country's transition into an endemic phase. This decision marks a significant shift in the protocol for health measures and aims to prevent the transmission of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).
The decision to drop vaccination requirements stems from several factors. The letter acknowledges the controlled spread of SARS-CoV-2 both globally and in Indonesia, the high level of community immunity, relaxation of transportation policies in other countries, and cross-sector evaluations of COVID-19 control measures. The main objective of this decision is to provide maximum protection to the public against COVID-19 transmission.
The scope of this decision encompasses health protocols for both domestic and international travelers, large-scale events, and activities in public facilities during the endemic phase of COVID-19. The legal basis for this decision includes various regulations, such as Presidential Regulation No. 82/2020 and its subsequent amendments, Presidential Decisions No. 11/2020, No. 12/2020, and No. 24/2021, as well as the Chairman's Decision of the COVID-19 Handling Task Force No. 1/2023.
While vaccination is no longer a mandatory requirement for entry, the official letter emphasizes that individuals should continue to prioritize personal protection against COVID-19. The following health protocols are strongly recommended:
Vaccination: Individuals are encouraged to complete their COVID-19 vaccination, including the recommended booster shots, especially those at higher risk of contracting the virus.
Mask Usage: Healthy individuals who are not at risk of transmission are permitted to forgo wearing masks. However, it is advised to wear well-fitted masks in situations where health conditions are compromised or there is a risk of COVID-19 transmission. Masks should be worn during travel and activities in public facilities.
Hand Hygiene: Individuals are advised to carry hand sanitizers and wash hands regularly with soap and running water, especially after coming into contact with shared surfaces.
Physical Distancing: Individuals who are unwell or at risk of transmitting COVID-19 are encouraged to maintain distance from others and avoid crowded places to prevent the spread of the virus.
Health Monitoring: Individuals are recommended to use the SATUSEHAT application to monitor their personal health.
The letter emphasizes that it is the collective responsibility of transportation providers, operators of public facilities, organizers of large-scale events, and local governments to continue implementing preventive and promotive measures to control COVID-19 transmission. They are expected to monitor, supervise, regulate, and enforce adherence to health protocols effectively.
With the dropping of vaccination requirements for entry into Indonesia, the government is signaling a new phase in the country's COVID-19 transition. While the decision aims to strike a balance between protecting public health and restoring economic activities, it is essential for individuals and stakeholders to remain vigilant and adhere to the recommended health protocols. The government continues to monitor the situation closely and may re-impose restrictions if there is a significant increase in COVID-19 cases. By collectively embracing these health measures, Indonesians can navigate the ongoing pandemic with resilience and safeguard public health.
Follow the link below to the official circular letter from the Indonesian government
https://covid19.go.id/artikel/2023/06/09/surat-edaran-kasatgas-nomor-1-tahun-2023?fbclid=IwAR1XHJuCe0jFOdniOu_dPvQN36cGGJT5NPNsFzcGdcnRjK7xBYbtYEv1sQE