Emergency PPKM in Effect in 122 Regencies/Cities in Java and Bali

President Joko Widodo officially implemented Emergency Community Activity Restrictions (PPKM) for Java and Bali from July 3 to 20, 2021. 122 regencies and cities on the islands of Java and Bali followed this policy. This tightening of restrictions was implemented to suppress the transmission rate of the coronavirus in areas experiencing a surge in Covid-19 cases.

The implementation of the emergency PPKM across these 122 regencies/cities was divided into 48 areas assessed at level four. 13 regencies/cities were from Central Java, the largest number compared to other provinces. West Java and East Java followed with 12 and 11 regencies/cities respectively.

Meanwhile, 74 other areas were categorized as level three. The implementation of PPKM at this level was dominated by East Java, which was required to implement emergency PPKM in 25 regencies/cities. Central Java and West Java followed with 22 and 14 regencies/cities respectively.

The government determined that an area must implement emergency PPKM based on indicators of transmission rate and response capacity. The transmission rate considers community transmission in confirmed positive Covid-19 cases, hospitalizations, and mortality rate. Meanwhile, the response capacity indicator is based on the positivity rate, close contacts, and hospital bed occupancy rate.

This tightening of activities requires all people in level three and four areas to work from home, especially in non-essential sectors. Shopping malls are closed, as are places of worship and public facilities.

The government urges the public to continue washing their hands with soap and running water, wearing masks, and maintaining distance. Avoiding crowds and reducing mobility also contribute to suppressing the transmission rate of the coronavirus.