In a recent development, the Indonesian government has taken the decision to temporarily halt the visa-free policy for visitors from 159 countries. President Joko Widodo shed light on the underlying factors behind this policy during his visit to Pasar Parungpung, Gunung Sindur District, Bogor Regency, West Java Province, on Wednesday (June 21, 2023).
He emphasized the importance of evaluating whether the visa-free policy has truly benefited the country. Similar measures have been implemented by other nations in the past, reflecting the need for a thorough assessment of such policies.
President Jokowi underscored the significance of conducting a post-policy evaluation to gauge the advantages and disadvantages of the visa-free policy.
In his statement, he emphasized, “There will be a comprehensive evaluation to determine the extent of its benefits and drawbacks.”
The temporary suspension of the visa-free policy for 159 countries was announced by Minister of Law and Human Rights, Yasonna Laoly, taking into consideration various factors and concerns. This decision is documented in the Ministerial Decree of the Ministry of Law and Human Rights of the Republic of Indonesia, bearing the number M.HH-GR.01.07 of 2023, which was officially enacted on June 7, 2023.
Referring to the ministerial decree, it is evident that the provision of visa-free access had implications for multiple aspects of national life, including potential disruptions to public order and the risk of disease transmission from countries that have not been declared free from specific illnesses by the World Health Organization (WHO). Consequently, the number of individuals eligible for the visa-free policy is currently being reassessed and regulated.
Achmad Nur Saleh, the Sub-coordinator of Public Relations, elaborated on this matter, stating, “Based on these considerations, the ministerial decision was made.” This statement, reported by Detikcom on Friday (June 16, 2023), highlights the government’s intent to prioritize the well-being and safety of the nation’s citizens.
Achmad further explained that, at present, the visa-free policy only applies to 10 countries, including Brunei Darussalam, the Philippines, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam.
These countries continue to enjoy visa-free access for a maximum period of 30 days, which cannot be extended. However, it is essential to note that all visitors are required to fulfill certain mandatory requirements, such as possessing a valid passport with a remaining validity of at least 6 months and providing proof of a return ticket departing from Indonesian territory.
The temporary suspension of the visa-free policy reflects the government’s commitment to carefully assess the impact and efficacy of such measures, taking into account the evolving global situation and the country’s own national interests.
As the evaluation proceeds, the government remains dedicated to ensuring the welfare, security, and smooth operation of travel processes within the nation’s borders.
