The Politics of Lockdown: Lives vs Livelihoods
Topic
- The Special Capital Region of Jakarta (DKI) has finally re-implemented a partial lockdown, better known as large-scale social restrictions (PSBB), starting today, September 14. Jakarta Governor Anies Baswedan announced the details of the implementation of the social restrictions on Sunday, September 13. However, the announcement received condemnation from central government officials.
- The main concern of the central government is that social restrictions will further suppress economic growth, especially if the restrictions are followed by other large provinces. It is why discussions around social restrictions are always tough. Jakarta alone contributes around 18 percent to the national economy, while Java Island has almost 60 percent.
- The problem is that the relaxation of social restrictions that took place since June has not been able to significantly boost growth even though the government has provided various social assistance to stimulate public consumption.