Banjarbaru closes tourist attractions, entertainments, malls

Banjarbaru, S Kalimantan (ANTARA) - The government of Banjarbaru and the city's Leadership Communication Forum (Forkopimda) agreed to close tourist attractions, entertainment venues, and malls for six days from Tuesday (May 11) to Sunday (May 16).

The agreement was outlined in circular No.300/9/KUM/2021 dated May 7, 2021, signed by the Mayor, the Police Chief, DPRD Speaker, Head of Prosecutor's Office, Commander of 1006/Mtp District Military, and Head of Banjarbaru Court. 

"This circular related to the temporary closure of tourist places, entertainments, and malls as an effort to prevent and minimize the spread of COVID-19," said Banjarbaru Mayor HM Aditya Mufti Ariffin. 

He said the closure of the public facilities is also aimed at preventing crowds in celebrating Idul Fitri 1442 Hijriah and national holidays because crowds have the potential to spread COVID-19.

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According to the agreement, he and Forkopimda are ready to go down to the field to ensure that tourist places, entertainments, and malls are closed for five days in accordance with the circular. 

"If any (place) is proven to violate will be subjected to sanction according to the level of violation. If it causes a crowd, the sanction will be severe until the closure of the business place," he pointed out. 

A joint team from related elements will be deployed to ensure that the policies taken regarding the closure are complied with by the owner or manager of the places. 

He added that the closure does not apply to traditional markets, because the markets are food suppliers to the community, thus their existence is urgently needed.

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