Indonesia has implemented a new health pass system for all travelers entering the country, a measure designed to prevent the spread of the Mpox virus. Effective August 27, 2024, anyone visiting Indonesia must obtain a “SATUSEHAT Health Pass” before their arrival.
This new requirement, reminiscent of the stringent health measures implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic, underscores Indonesia’s commitment to public health. The health pass is a crucial component of the country’s comprehensive strategy to monitor and control emerging global health threats.
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Mpox a public health emergency of international concern on August 14, 2024. In response, Indonesian authorities mandated that all international arrivals, including airline crew members, comply with updated health protocols.
The core of these protocols is the SATUSEHAT Health Pass, an electronic self-declaration form that must be completed within 48 hours before departure to Indonesia. Accessible at sshp.kemkes.go.id, the form collects vital health information that enables airport authorities to assess the risk of Mpox transmission.
Upon completing the SATUSEHAT Health Pass, travelers receive a QR code. This code plays a crucial role in facilitating health screenings upon arrival, allowing authorities to quickly identify passengers and conduct any necessary health checks. This digital tool streamlines the identification process, contributing to a smoother entry process while upholding public health safeguards.
Beyond the health pass system, Indonesia has proactively prepared its healthcare infrastructure to address the potential spread of Mpox. The government has equipped Jakarta and Bali with PCR machines capable of delivering test results within 30 to 40 minutes, ensuring rapid response capabilities. Hospitals in these cities are also fully equipped with the necessary medical facilities and medications to handle Mpox cases.
The minister responsible for public health has emphasized that the variant of Mpox found in Indonesia, known as clade 2b, has a relatively low mortality rate and is treatable with proper medical care, reassuring the public about the effectiveness of the country’s healthcare response.
Indonesia has further bolstered its defense against Mpox by acquiring an additional 1,600 doses of vaccines, demonstrating its commitment to controlling the situation. The government continues to reinforce public health protocols, ensuring that Indonesia remains vigilant in the face of the virus.
It’s important to note that travelers must obtain a visa to enter Indonesia. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, visa-free entry was granted to tourists from 169 countries. However, in response to the global health crisis, Indonesia reinstated visa requirements for 159 of those nations, while maintaining visa-free travel for citizens of ASEAN countries.
Currently, citizens of nearly 100 countries can apply for an electronic visa (e-VOA) for a 30-day stay or an electronic visa (e-Visa) for a 60-day stay. Applications for both the e-VOA and e-Visa, including any extensions, can be submitted through the official website at evisa.imigrasi.go.id.
In June, Indonesia’s Minister of Tourism, Sandiaga Uno, stated that the government is considering extending the visa-free policy to approximately 20 additional countries, including Australia, China, France, Germany, India, Japan, and the United States. This potential expansion would further encourage tourism and economic growth in Indonesia.
