Dear Readers,

It’s been three months since COVID-19 first hit Indonesia. A lot has happened; constant changing of regulations set by the government, the ups and downs of case numbers, working and studying at home, (somewhat) empty streets across the country, and so on. But the government has tackled the pandemic quite well in most areas, including the beloved capital. With that being said, the large-scale social restrictions (PSBB) have been loosened following the reopening of socio-economic sectors.

Do you think it’s time to finally resume our pre-pandemic lifestyles so quickly? Look at South Korea, for example. Restrictions were lifted and citizens there got back on their feet. In a matter of months, surging numbers of new positive cases struck the country. Will you be ready if that happens to Indonesia? Certainly, people have mixed feelings about working in offices and commuting around the Jabodetabek area. Perhaps this is the reason behind Governor of DKI Jakarta Anies Baswedan’s naming of June as the transitional PSBB period – to test the disciplined actions of its citizens in combatting and living with COVID-19.

As predicted, Jakarta primarily was swarmed on the first day back to the office on Monday, June 8. If people don’t follow the health protocols and contribute to another increase in new cases, Jakarta and other areas will be closed again. So let’s do our part!

In the meantime, Indonesia Expat has included some exciting stories on travelling, entertainment, health, scams in the city, inspirational expats in Jakarta and Bali, charity, and insights on living through the “new normal” era.

Don’t forget to check out daily news updates at www.indonesiaexpat.biz. Follow our Instagram and Facebook accounts @indonesiaexpat to stay updated on the daily COVID-19 cases and news, as well as attractive promotions your favourite hotels, restaurants, and schools have to offer.

Happy reading! Edo Frese