Under PPKM level 2 --- the second lowest restriction -- shopping centers and malls are allowed to operate at 75 percent capacity and until 10 p.m., and houses of worship are also allowed to hold congregational prayers at 75 percent capacity.

The extension was declared in an instruction signed by Home Minister Tito Karnavian on Monday.

Areas in Greater Jakarta comprise: Jakarta (five municipalities and one regency); Tangerang city, South Tangerang and Tangerang regency in Banten province; and Bekasi city and Depok city in West Java.

The agglomerated area has been under PPKM level 2 since the restriction was eased from level 3 on March 8.

In the past few weeks, Indonesia has seen a declining number of daily COVID-19 cases in the past few weeks despite continuous easing of COVID-19 rules and the increase in public mobility during Ramadan.

Last month, authorities waived mandatory quarantine for fully vaccinated international visitors and lifted the COVID-19 test requirement for domestic travelers who have received booster shots.

For the first time in two years, the government has allowed Muslims to perform prayers at public houses of worship without physical-distancing requirements or a limit on the number of worshipers allowed to gather at any one time. 

It has also allowed people to embark on the mudik (homecoming) for Idul Fitri, an annual tradition. It is estimated that 85 million Indonesian will make homebound trips for the holiday festivities this year. (dre)