One Protocol, Various Fines

Several regions issued regulations to support Presidential Instruction No. 6/2020 on Stricter Health Protocols to Prevent COVID-19. Among the areas that have enforced the rule is the West Java Provincial Government. West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil said that administrative sanctions for violating health protocols are regulated in Governor Regulation No. 60/2020. In this regulation, violators are subject to a fine of Rp 100,000 to Rp 500,000 and social work.

Governor Ridwan said fines are the last measure to make discipline people in adhering to health protocols. The type of sanction depends on the Civil Service Police Unit carrying out law enforcement with the army and police. The governor of South Sumatra, Herman Deru, also imposes a fine of Rp 100,000 to Rp 500,000 for violators, but not accompanied by a social work penalty. "The governor's regulation will be issued after being verified by the Ministry of Home Affairs," he said.

In contrast, West Sumatra Governor Irwan Prayitno intends to impose heavier criminal sanctions so that residents are more aware of health protocols. "So far, the sanctions have only been administrative and have not created a deterrent effect," he said. Meanwhile, Palangka Raya city government only applies a fine of Rp 20,000 tp Rp 50,000 against offenders, such as those who do not wear a mask.