City Council Calls for Tighter Monitoring of Mask Prices and Stock

Jakarta Council (DPRD) Vice Chair Rany Mauliani has called on the Jakarta Industry, Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises (PPKUKM) Agency and relevant agencies to step up monitoring of mask prices and availability on the market.

An adequate supply of masks is essential to protecting residents

This measure is important to prevent shortage and unreasonable price increases amid the impact of volcanic ash from the Mount Anak Krakatau.

Jakarta Provincial Government Anticipates the Impact of Volcanic Ash from Mount Anak Krakatau

"Regarding complaints about rising mask prices, I believe this needs serious attention. I urge the PPKUKM Agency and relevant agencies to monitor mask prices and availability on the market," he said on Monday (9/7).

Rany stressed that emergency situations must not be exploited by certain parties to make excessive profits. If there are indications of hoarding or price manipulation, the Jakarta Provincial Government should take firm action in accordance with applicable regulations.

"We must not allow a disaster or emergency situation to be exploited by certain individuals to make excessive profits," she asserted.

In addition to monitoring mask prices, Rany called on the Jakarta Provincial Government to ensure that masks suitable for protecting against volcanic ash particles are widely available and easy to obtain. According to her, an adequate supply of masks is essential to protecting residents.

"We must not let people who need masks have difficulty getting them because of limited supplies," she noted.

Rany also urged healthcare facilities to strengthen their preparedness for residents who may experience respiratory problems or other health complaints due to volcanic ash exposure. This includes ensuring adequate medical personnel, medicines, treatment space, and access to healthcare services around the clock.

"The Jakarta Siaga 112 service and the nearest healthcare facilities must also be truly responsive," she added.

She reminded residents to remain calm, stay vigilant, and follow official government information.

"My message to the public is to stay calm but don't let your guard down. Follow official government information, wear a mask when you need to go outside, reduce non-essential outdoor activities, and seek medical attention immediately if you experience any health problems," she said.

Meanwhile, Rany praised the Jakarta Provincial Government's swift response in anticipating the impact of volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau. However, she called for mitigation measures to be implemented consistently and adjusted to developments on the ground until the situation is declared safe.

"I believe the Jakarta Provincial Government's swift measures to anticipate the impact of volcanic ash from Mount Anak Krakatau deserve appreciation. The distance learning (PJJ) policy, water mist operations, calls to use masks, and restrictions on outdoor activities are important preventive measures to protect residents' health and safety," she explained.

According to Rany, the detection of volcanic ash reaching Jakarta means the precautionary principle must continue to be prioritized. She added that the distance learning policy does not mean suspending education, but rather ensuring that children continue to receive their right to education without being exposed to poor air quality.

"From the council, we certainly encourage this swift response to be more than temporary and to be followed by measured preparedness. Coordination among the Jakarta Provincial Government, BPBD, Health Agency, Education Agency, BMKG, and relevant agencies must continue based on developments on the ground," she emphasized.