My Thoughts on Indonesia's Response to COVID-19 (Government, People, etc.) (eng)

Today is May 6th, it has been two months of quarantine for me and my family, and I have spent a few amounts of time reading and gathering information from online newspapers and social media, and boy do I have things to say.

First off, the government has made quite a few (well, a lot) regulations concerning COVID-19, from the Presidential Decree to just now Perppu No. 1/2020 on State Financial Policy and Financial System Stability for Handling Corona Virus Disease (Covid-19) is officially part of Indonesia's Constitution, although I can't speak on the behalf of the ones that are highly affected by this decision, and I'm pretty sure that there are pros and cons concerning it, I guess we could say they didn't handle it as fast as we hope they could, but nevertheless it has been done. I have read some of it on the internet, and the Minister of Finance's (Sri Mulyani) response: https://www.pajak.go.id/sites/default/files/2020-04/Perpu%20Nomor%201%20Tahun%202020.pdf

Also, despite the government not that quick on their feet on making decisions, I really think it also depends on us the people. The news of the virus started spreading in Indonesia (Jakarta) was already informed. I mean, in a way, don't you think that's already some kind of warning sign for people to do at least wear a mask or bring hand sanitizers? My point is, instead of saying the government is slow on taking actions, why not being more aware of the situation ourselves. But I don't want to get too serious, as of course, this is just for the sake of opinion. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and this is my 18-year-old opinion. OH, and I also wanted to talk about this:

What do you think? Honestly, at first, I was a little bit skeptical, as I was only reading just the news title "MINISTER OF LAW AND HUMAN RIGHTS FREED 38.882 CONVICTS" and just went confused and scared at the same time. But as I had the time to process the decision and the reasons behind it, I guess in this particular situation (a national non-natural emergency) it is crucial for us to be fair and respect the authorities' decision. That everyone deserves to be treated to the same safety procedures. But in this case, there are a few conditions that the convicts have to fulfill in order to be released, so it's not like the staff are just going to release whoever, so that's good. Plus, from 38.882 only 0,20% acted up again. I'm not saying it's good news but compared to other countries, it's considered low so let's just hope it doesn't go any higher anytime soon.

Now, to the fun part. The people. I just want to say that PSBB (Pembatasan Sosial Berskala Besar) made a huge difference and I'm sure Indonesians already know that. Lots of small companies, even the zoo ): are affected by this change. Hopefully, there's a solution to whether they use the advantages of online markets or other solutions. As for tourist attractions such as the zoo, I have heard that it is harder and harder for the workers to provide food for the animals (so sad). So, if anyone wants to help, search online charities from the internet concerning this. I donated using my phone. There are also a few charities supporting our health workers which are superheroes obviously! To provide them food, drinks, etc.

There are so many creative people that are trying to make a positive impact on this situation. Making the best out of it. I have so many #VirtualPhotoshoot posts on my Instagram hahaha which I can't blame looks really cool, and what I'm sure to be pretty challenging yet unique so that's one way to fill time. A lot of "forwarding kindness" types of posts which are super nice and can make you feel special. Social media right now is basically a positive reinforcement device you can carry anywhere (well, in this case at home) and I'm happy about that. There are also people posting and enjoying their special occasions but in quarantine so there's a might-as-well-make-it-hilarious vibe. I am really enjoying this part of the quarantine.

Now, this is just a bit of advice so don't get all cranky on me. But just please follow the rules. For the sake of all of our health. Our health workers are risking their lives out there, don't thank them by hanging out with your friends risking yourself and others! As for some people that are trying to go back to their hometown, the nomads that are living in Jakarta, I hope there's a safety procedure for you that can safely let you through, but remember that it's a risk without it, so I hope with the proper conditions and enough system to go by, it could be handled. Other than the people that are related to speed up the handling of COVID-19, please don't.

*I am only sharing my opinion

-r.k