Southeast Asia's largest economy imposes health declaration for tourists amid mpox concerns

By Hoang Phong September 5, 2024 | 10:24 pm PT

Foreign tourists carrying their luggage walk at I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, 2022. Photo by Reuters

Indonesia has mandated that all international travelers complete an electronic health declaration form before entering the country to prevent the spread of monkeypox (mpox) virus.

The requirement applies to all foreign visitors, including cabin crew, according to Kristi Endah Murni, Director General of Air Transportation under the Ministry of Transportation, as reported by Antara News Agency.

The decision follows the World Health Organization's classification of mpox as a public health emergency of international concern on Aug. 14.

Travelers must complete the form, available at sshp.kemkes.go.id, within 48 hours before departure. This allows Indonesian airport authorities to assess potential risks related to the transmission of the virus.

Upon completion, the form generates a QR code, which facilitates the identification and health screening of travelers upon arrival.

Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, recorded 6.4 million foreign tourist arrivals from January to June this year, a 21% increase compared to the same period last year. The country anticipates welcoming 17 million international visitors by the end of the year.