Soekarno-Hatta and I Gusti Ngurah Rai airports are stepping up their efforts to enhance COVID-19 health protocols, aiming to control the virus spread amid the escalating cases in ASEAN countries, including Singapore and Malaysia.

Naning Nugrahini, the Head of the Port Health Office of Soekarno-Hatta Airport, underscored the significance of adhering to health measures in the airport environment. “It is strongly recommended to wear masks and maintain hygiene. All airlines are also advised to implement and adhere to health protocols,” Nugrahini stated on Monday, December 11, 2023.

As the Christmas 2023 and New Year 2024 holidays approach, an increase in travelers is expected. The agency is on high alert and has proactively prepared health facilities, such as posts and clinics, to address potential COVID-19 symptoms.

Nugrahini explained, “Our focus is on intensifying supervision of both domestic and foreign travelers entering the airport.” The Port Health Office, in collaboration with a team of doctors, is proactively addressing the transmission of COVID-19 through comprehensive tracking and health tests on passengers. The Tangerang Soekarno-Hatta Airport COVID-19 Control Task Force Team will scrutinize passengers, both arriving and departing, to ensure the effective implementation of health protocols.

Meanwhile, Bali’s Port Health Office has initiated heightened supervision at three key entrances to the island: Benoa Harbor, Celuk Bawang, and I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport.

Anak Agung Ngurah Kusumajaya, Head of Denpasar Class I KKP, clarified, “While strict health protocols have not been implemented yet, we recommend individuals who feel unwell or exhibit symptoms, such as the flu, to wear masks.” Monitoring efforts include the preparation of 300 free doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. Kusumajaya also urged the public, particularly immigration officers at airports and ports, to ensure they are fully vaccinated, including receiving booster shots.

Both ports have equipped themselves with one tool each, while the airport boasts four body temperature scanners, with three strategically placed in the international arrivals terminal. In the event a tourist or foreigner tests positive for COVID-19, the prescribed course of action involves quarantine at a health facility or referral hospital in Bali.

Kusumajaya reassured that, thus far, no instances of COVID-19 transmission from ASEAN countries have been detected in Bali.