Conflict of Interests Behind the PSBB Easing
Summary
- Jakarta has relaxed its large-scale social restrictions (PSBB) policy for the sake of rescuing the economy, despite still mixed health indicators. COVID-19 infection rates are still hovering around the safe threshold, while transmission clusters tracking is still underperformed.
- Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan was reportedly reluctant to loosen the PSBB at least until July-August, or until Jakarta succeeded in flattening the COVID-19 curve. However, pressure came from various directions, especially the central government.
- PSBB easing in Jakarta applies widely amid mixed health indicators. It reflects conflicting interests to be accommodated, not only economic-related interests but also in social politics.
- PSBB easing might not immediately boost the capital’s economy, as exports and public consumption, which are the backbone of the economy, may still stall. On the other hand, there is a risk of increased infection rates due to weak supervision and case tracking.