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The Batam municipal government in Indonesia’s Riau Islands has heightened its COVID-19 alert status following a notable rise in cases in neighbouring Singapore, a key regional transit hub just across the strait, Antaranews reported.
Didi Kusmarjadi, Head of the Batam Health Office, confirmed the city has activated its Early Warning and Response System (SKDR) to monitor potential outbreaks and respond swiftly to any signs of viral spread.
“SKDR enables weekly tracking of disease trends, allowing us to anticipate outbreaks more effectively,” Kusmarjadi said on June 30.
While Batam has yet to report a new wave of infections, Kusmarjadi stressed the city’s strategic proximity to Singapore makes proactive measures essential. The local government is urging residents to remain vigilant and continue adhering to health protocols.
To bolster public readiness, health authorities are working with local health centres to promote early detection and community awareness of COVID-19 symptoms. Kusmarjadi underscored the role of public education in preventing complacency, especially as Batam serves as a major gateway into Indonesia.
Although no mass screening has been conducted, authorities confirmed that primary vaccinations have been completed across the city.
The move follows a health ministry advisory warning of a potential resurgence in COVID-19 cases across parts of Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Hong Kong.
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