IDNEWSNOW.COM, Jakarta – University of Indonesia (UI) epidemiologist Pandu Riono on Monday blasted the Indonesian government’s use of the term ‘new normal’ in a period where the COVID-19 pandemic remained unchecked.
He believes the term that has recently been promoted by the government has caused a misconception among the public that the situation in Indonesia has returned to normal.
“Especially with the use of english, Some people only grasp the word ‘normal’ and set aside the meaning of ‘new’,” said Pandu to Tempo on Monday.
The epidemiologist encouraged the government to keep educating people through multiple ways and media to help people understand the true nature behind the COVID-19 viral spread in Indonesia.
The COVID-19 viral spread has reached a record-high throughout the pandemic as Jakarta reported 404 positive cases on Sunday, July 12, 2020, propelling the total tally to 14,361 cases. The COVID-19 positivity rate in the capital city has even reached 10.5 percent, which is the highest thus far.
Read: Cinemas to Open by July’s End; Will Adopt New Normal Protocols
IMAM HAMDI
