JAKARTA – Indonesia today recorded 1,338 Covid-19 deaths in a new high, though fresh infections declined to 34,257.
The country is continuing with firm measures to curb the pandemic, with Muslims preparing to celebrate Hari Raya Aidiladha tomorrow prohibited from holding congregational prayers in Java and Bali.
“Congregational prayers in other provinces are allowed, provided that the maximum capacity is 30% and strict health protocols are in place,” National Covid-19 task force spokesman Wiku Adisasmito told a virtual press conference.
The Aidiladha sacrificial ritual is allowed, but those involved have to undergo Covid-19 testing, while the distribution of meat to large crowds is prohibited.
Infections have risen sharply in Indonesia following the exodus back to hometowns during the Aidilfitri celebration in May, and due to the spread of the Delta variant.
A travel ban is in force for tomorrow’s celebration.
The country has seen a total of 79,420 coronavirus deaths and 2,911,733 infections. – Bernama, July 19, 2021