Bali Airport Passengers Urged To Comply With Health Protocols As Covid Cases Surge Again

In light of the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in Indonesia, including Bali, Angkasa Pura 1 (AP1), the operator of Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, has heightened its vigilance.

During a Media Gathering event on Thursday, December 14, 2023, AP1’s General Manager, Handy Heryudhitiawan, emphasized the importance of ongoing coordination with all stakeholders, particularly the Port Health Office (KKP), to enhance awareness and mitigation efforts against the virus.

Heryudhitiawan highlighted the active checks being conducted by the KKP at both departure and arrival areas using body temperature detection devices, including five thermal scanner units, to identify passengers displaying symptoms. When asked about the potential reinstatement of COVID-19 health protocols (Prokes) at the airport for passengers and workers, Heryudhitiawan mentioned that AP1 is in alignment with government measures and is awaiting specific regulatory guidance for smooth implementation.

Currently, AP1 is in coordination and awaiting further regulations to address the situation. This approach is in line with early mitigation strategies implemented by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries at the airport, including the continued encouragement of mask usage among service users. Heryudhitiawan urged travelers to prioritize their health and adhere to health protocols to ensure safe and healthy travel.

Made Rentin, the Head of Bali’s Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), mentioned that there are currently no specific rules for domestic and international travelers regarding the coronavirus ahead of the Christmas holidays. However, the Ministry of Health’s Circular Number: HK.02.02/C/4815/2023 emphasizes the importance of increased vigilance through measures such as vaccination, situation monitoring, verifying the vaccination status of travelers, strict supervision, and enhanced public education communication.

This update comes as COVID-19 cases in Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries, including Singapore, Malaysia, and the Philippines, have been on the rise. The government is urging regional leaders to enhance vigilance in response to this development.

60 Covid-19 cases found in Bali in the last 12 days

I Nyoman Gede Anom, the Head of Bali Province Health Service, has reported that Bali has recorded 60 new positive cases of COVID-19 between December 1 and December 12, 2023. These cases were identified among patients seeking medical attention at hospitals across the province.

“Some patients went to the hospital for treatment, while others were there for surgery. Some had symptoms like cough and cold, so PCR tests were conducted, and several tested positive,” Anom stated in an interview on Wednesday, December 13, 2023.