Indonesia
An Islamic group finds Jakarta’s decision to ease restrictions confusing, as places of worship are still restricted.
As Indonesia has yet to see the curve of Covid-19 infection flatten, the government’s decision to roll out guidelines on easing restrictions under its so-called new normal protocols has created confusion among the public, according to Islamic organisation Muhammadiyah.
“The government’s recent statements about the new normal has raised questions and caused confusion in the community,” reads a statement that was jointly signed by Muhammadiyah chairman Haedar Nashir and secretary Abdul Mu’ti on Thursday.
In some areas, malls and shopping centres are open while mosques and worship houses remain closed.
“This has the potential of causing tension between government institutions and congregations,” the statement reads.
The statement also cites National Disaster Mitigation Agency data that indicates the outbreak in the country is not yet under in control.
“It therefore makes sense if the public’s perception is that the (plan to loosen restrictions) means economic interests take precedent over the people’s lives,” according to the statement.
“Keeping the economy running is important, but saving people’s lives is no less important.”
Muhammadiyah questioned whether the government’s decision to implement new normal protocols had been backed by epidemiologists through thorough assessments.
“All parties hope the pandemic ends soon. But everything needs to be assessed thoroughly so that our efforts over the past three months will end well,” the statement reads, referring to large-scale social restrictions that have been in place in some areas since March.