As of today, in Indonesia, there are more than 989 thousand cases of Covid-19. This number continues to rise despite the effort of mass vaccination by the government. The vaccination stirs controversy and its challenges. However, for regular people, life has to move on. Places are operating under the new normal, which does not seem to curb the infection cases effectively. However, there are places like a traditional market where there is no strict implementation of covid-19 protocols.
A study and a policy report published by UNESCO lays out current challenges that Indonesian lawmakers face to create a better policy for people, especially the vulnerable groups such as poor people, women, and PwDs. In this 38 pages report, it is mentioned that the poor do not have proper access to healthcare and high risk of getting the virus due to the environment.
Today, I witnessed some of environmental problem that can lead to the faster spread of the virus. I went to the traditional market nearby this morning. It's a typical muddy market with people selling their goods either on the road or having a little hut-like establishment. 90% of the seller don't wear a mask, and the transaction is done through cash payment. This place has a higher risk of covid19 spread than other places that implement the new standard protocol. Interestingly, the people around don't seem to care either.
Sure, these are fresh vegetables. It's often straight from people who have their garden or farm. This traditional market sells cheaper and more fresh items than a supermarket. It's an option for many people to shop, especially the low and middle-class income families. So, essentially a lot of families are reliant on this place.
There needs to be regular socialization in the traditional market about the new protocols and social awareness about the pandemic. There also need to be more working faucets, which I don't see today. This traditional market is only one of many across the country. Perhaps, other places are better, and I hope that is the case.
People can not remain to be quarantined for too long. They need money to live. The current vaccines are not going to be free either. With these people in the traditional market barely making ends meet, they might not have the chance to get vaccinated. So, I don't think that covid-19 is going to go anytime sooner.
Reference
Unesco Policy Report Impact of Covid in Indonesia