JAKARTA — A group of scientists from the Indonesian Young Scientist Forum has called on the government to impose a lockdown on areas that have been deemed hot zones of the Covid-19 outbreak, in an effort to contain the virus’ spread ahead of Ramadan and the Idul Fitri holiday in April and May. In a letter addressed to Presidential Chief of Staff Moeldoko, the scientists requested an official meeting to contribute to the government’s policymaking process with regard to the public health crisis ahead of the major religious holiday. ADVERTISEMENTThe Islamic fasting month of Ramadan is expected to begin on April 23, while Idul Fitri, which marks the end of the fasting month, is expected to fall on May 23. The scientists noted that the annual Idul Fitri exodus, called mudik, during which people return to their hometowns across the country, would heighten the risk of a nationwide epidemic. “Decisions have to be made based on our readiness for the worst-case scenario, for the safety of Indonesia, ” the forum said.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer March 16, 2020 06:00 UTC