Dear Readers,
The Indonesian government is getting a lot of criticism from citizens, former Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, and even the World Health Organisation (WHO) for not taking this coronavirus pandemic seriously. Meanwhile, European, North American, and Asian countries are currently under lockdown, in the hopes of stopping the transmission spreading further.
Jakarta is very quiet now, similar to when most people have gone back to their hometowns during Idul Fitri holidays. Indirectly, social distancing allows the Earth to breathe. President Joko Widodo recently claimed that there are no intentions to set Jakarta or the nation on lockdown. If that day does come, perhaps it will be a great time for all of us to enjoy quality time with our loved ones and start picking up new hobbies.
Indeed, Jakarta’s provincial governments, along with other major cities, are urging citizens, both Indonesian and foreigners, to implement social distancing. But what exactly is social distancing and how significantly can it help countries during this situation?
Social distancing, according to a recent article by the New York Times, is the act of distancing yourself from and minimising contact with other people. Ignoring this can put you and everyone else at a much higher risk. It can reduce the number of cases to try and not exceed hospitals' capacity, providing more time to develop a vaccine, and essentially inhibit the spread of the virus.
To do so, we need to avoid crowded entertainment hubs and public transportation whenever possible, limit non-essential travel, work from home when we can, communicate via text, phone calls, social media, email, etc instead of meeting up, as well as skipping social gatherings. The WHO advises to maintain at least one metre distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
We might be healthy enough to fight off the virus, but other people, especially those most vulnerable, may not. This also means not taking advantage of the ridiculously cheap domestic and international flights. In fact, Foreign Minister, Retno Marsudi had recently announced new travel restrictions in and out of Indonesia.
So much is still unknown about this virus and how it behaves, but maintaining social relationships is nonetheless important for our general well-being. Do it in a thoughtful way.
On a brighter note, Indonesia Expat has all things educational this month: languages, schools, studying experiences, and tips perfect for your children or even yourself! Yet the Indonesia Expat Mixer on March 18, 2020 at Lbrty Jakarta has been cancelled. This was a preventative measure to keep everyone in optimal health and keep them safe during this pandemic.
Stay healthy, stay safe, and wash your hands for twenty seconds!
Happy reading!