Masks became essential during the pandemic to reduce transmission and save lives. A snug mask that fully covers the nose and mouth is required in public settings, both outdoors and indoors. In addition, the permitted types of masks to prevent COVID-19 such as medical masks, triple-layer disposable masks, or triple-layer cloth masks, are regulated.

Used together by also avoiding crowds, maintaining physical distance, washing hands with soap or using hand sanitizer, and completing full COVID-19 vaccination doses, mask use has helped move us into the endemic stage.

What Does Endemic Mean?

Endemic refers to a disease that persists at a steady, predictable level within a specific area.

COVID-19 Situation in Indonesia

According to the COVID-19 Task Force, as of May 17, 2022, the latest COVID-19 situation recorded 3,898 active cases in Indonesia, with 799 patients, fewer number that previous cases needing medical care. New cases totaled 247, consisting of 231 local transmissions and 16 imported cases.

For COVID-19 vaccination, first-dose recipients increased by 19,065, bringing the total to 199,644,471. Second-dose recipients rose by 17,579, bringing the total to 166,290,758. Third-dose vaccinations added 24,912, bringing the total to 42,734,668. The vaccination target is 208,265,720 people. Based on these observations, President Joko Widodo issued directives to relax mask use.

Updated Rules for Mask Use

Following the President’s directives, Health Minister of Indonesa Budi Gunadi Sadikin explained that allowing people to go mask-free in open spaces is one of the gradual steps toward the COVID-19 endemic phase. A key point in this transition is that individuals recognize that responsibility for their health rests with each person.

The government cited several reasons for this gradual shift, including:

• Comparisons of case increases driven by newer variants

• High levels of immunity or antibodies among Indonesians, especially in Java and Bali

• Strong resilience against emerging variants

Under the latest Presidential Circular effective May 18, 2022, the mask use rules in Indonesia are:

• People may go without wearing masks in outdoor, uncrowded areas

• Masks required to be worn if you are in enclosed spaces and on public transportation

• Vulnerable groups that include older adults or those with comorbidities are still advised to wear masks

• People with coughs or colds must continue to wear masks during activities

• Fully vaccinated domestic and international travelers no longer need PCR or antigen swab tests

Despite these relaxations of regulations, the government continues to expand vaccination and promote clean, healthy living. Please maintain hand hygiene by washing with soap and clean water or using hand sanitizer, avoid touching the nose and mouth before washing hands, follow cough and sneeze etiquette, and avoid crowds.

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