Indonesia Highlights: Hopes Dwindle for Free Covid-19 Vaccines in Indonesia | Jokowi Sides with Law Enforcement | Regional Heads Plan for Incoming Holiday Travelers

KOMPAS.com – The Indonesian government clarified their decision to Covid-19 vaccine fees in which they will cover some of the fees for the country’s lower-class.

Spokesperson for the Covid-19 Vaccination, Siti Nadia Tarmizi shared that the government may not make the Covid-19 vaccine fully complimentary for Indonesians who face social and economic hardships.

The Indonesian government’s statement was a response to the public’s criticism over whether the vaccines will be charged a fee.

In other news, Indonesian President Joko Widodo made several statements indicating his support towards law enforcement officials.

His remarks followed the recent arrest of Islamic Defenders Front leader, Rizieq Shihab on Dec. 12 as well as the recent Sigi terror attack on Nov. 27.

With nearly two weeks until Christmas and New Year’s holidays for Indonesians, several of the country’s regional heads are taking measures to anticipate crowds of travelers while some have made pleas encouraging residents to stay home.

Surabaya Mayor Twi Rismaharini has issued two decrees while the Vice-Mayor of Yogyakarta, Heroe Poerwadi stated that Malioboro Street will be reopened for New Year’s Eve.

More details on today’s Indonesia news are highlighted below:

1. Indonesian Government: Complimentary Covid-19 Vaccines Unlikely

Although the Indonesian government received over 1 million doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, Siti Nadia explained that the plan remains the same and that is to prioritize medical workers, public service workers, and vulnerable groups.

Indonesians who face social and economic despair fall under the vulnerable group category.

Siti Nadia explained that the government does not intend to make Covid-19 vaccines free although they have also not yet decided on the price for the inoculation.

She added that free Covid-19 vaccines will take a toll on the State Budget as the Indonesian government must also set aside money to purchase protective equipment and pay for hospital services and social assistance programs.

Source: https://nasional.kompas.com/read/2020/12/13/16414641/pemerintah-akan-tanggung-biaya-vaksinasi-masyarakat-kurang-mampu?page=all#page2 

2. Indonesian President Defends Law and Order Following Rizieq Shihab’s Arrest

Indonesian President Joko Widodo responded to the arrest of Rizieq Shihab by asserting that law and order must be enforced.

Joko ‘Jokowi’ Widodo emphasized his point in response to the six FPI supporters who were gunned down on Dec. 7 in addition to the Sigi terror attack in Central Sulawesi on Nov. 27.

“The law must be followed and enforced. For what? To protect the people’s interest, protect our people and nation.”

Furthermore, the Indonesian President defended law enforcement officials stating that it is their duty to uphold order in which the officials are protected by the law in carrying out their duties. For that reason, Jokowi stipulated that citizens should not undermine the justice system.

Source: https://go.kompas.com/read/2020/12/14/185858474/indonesian-president-on-rizieq-shihabs-arrest-law-and-order-must-be-enforced 

3. Indonesia’s Regional Heads Plan Ahead for Holiday Travelers

Surabaya Mayor, Risma issued two decrees on Dec. 10 in which she recommended that all workers and staff members remain at home with their families and avoid traveling for the upcoming Christmas and New Year’s holidays in Indonesia.

Meanwhile, the Yogyakarta Provincial Government is likely slated to open the historic Malioboro Street in fear that if they keep it closed, crowds will form.

Thus, the Vice-Mayor of Yogyakarta Heroe Poerwadi shared that the government is in the midst of devising a plan that would open up some lanes of the popular Indonesian road for New Year’s Eve.

In the Indonesian city of Solo, the Vice-Mayor FX Hadi Rudyatomo expressed the government’s plans to require mandatory self-isolation for out-of-town travelers coming to the city for the holidays.

Meanwhile, the Wonogiri Regent Joko Sutopo shared that all tourist attractions in the regency will likely be shut down during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

Source: https://regional.kompas.com/read/2020/12/13/14400011/imbauan-kepala-daerah-jelang-libur-natal-dan-tahun-baru-2020-di-tengah