The requirement for mandatory Covid-19 vaccination as a prerequisite for both domestic and international travel has been abolished, as stated in Circular Letter (SE) Number 1 of 2023, which outlines the Health Protocols during the Transition Period of the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) Endemic.
While the mandatory vaccination rule has been lifted, Wiku Adisasmito, the Spokesperson for the Covid-19 Handling Task Force, emphasizes the continued importance of individuals receiving complete vaccination to safeguard themselves against the Covid-19 virus.
This SE, signed by Lieutenant General TNI Suharyanto, the Head of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) and Chairperson of the Covid-19 Handling Task Force, came into effect on June 9, 2023.
The adjustment in travel requirements is a response to the current situation of controlling the SARS-CoV-2 virus, taking into account the manageable spread of cases both globally and in Indonesia, the high immunity levels within the community, and the relaxed transportation policies in several countries.
Within the content of the SE issued by the Covid-19 Handling Task Force, vaccination is now presented as a recommendation rather than an obligatory condition for travel.
In a separate statement, Romel Simanungkalit, the Head of the Quarantine Control and Epidemiological Survey Department at the Class 1 Port Health Office in Batam, affirms that vaccination certificates are no longer required as a prerequisite for travel at all passenger arrival and departure points in Batam. This regulation applies to airports, domestic ports, and international ports.
“Indeed, vaccination is no longer a travel requirement,” confirms Romel on Sunday (June 11).
This change is enacted through the latest circular letter, SE 1 of 2023, which took effect on June 9, 2023, and invalidates the previous regulations regarding the vaccination requirement for both domestic and international travel, namely SE 19 of 2021, SE 20 of 2022, SE 24 of 2022, and SE 25 of 2022.
“Consequently, there is officially no longer an obligation for vaccination when undertaking travel, whether it is domestic or international,” clarifies Romel.
Despite the removal of the SE on mandatory vaccination, Romel assures that their vigilant monitoring of health conditions at ports remains steadfast.
“We have consistently maintained our surveillance efforts at all ports, including seaports and airports, recognizing that prevention measures extend beyond Covid-19. Each port and airport is equipped with our dedicated posts, and our officers are present in the field,” affirms Romel.
