"We have agreed to extend the PSBB in Greater Tangerang with some relaxations that are still in accordance with the health protocols," Wahidin was quoted as saying by kompas.com in a statement on Sunday.

He added that the decision to extend the PSBB in Greater Tangerang for a fifth time was taken after a virtual meeting with leaders from South Tangerang, Tangerang city and Tangerang regency.

"We need to extend the PSBB, because a lot of residents are still violating the health protocols in public places. At several traditional markets, for example, there are a lot of people who wear face masks but don't maintain a physical distance," Wahidin explained.

He said the PSBB extension was aimed at making residents more disciplined in following health protocols, such as wearing masks and maintaining a distance between one another before entering the so-called new normal phase.

Tangerang Regent Ahmad Zeki Iskandar said his administration was currently considering extending shopping mall opening hours from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. during the PSBB.

In preparation for entering the new normal, the city also plans to allow wedding receptions and sport events, albeit without an audience.

"Despite the relaxation, residents need to remain disciplined in wearing masks and following other health protocols," Zaki said on Sunday.

According to data from the Banten Health Agency, there are 1,131 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Greater Tangerang as of Sunday, with 81 fatalities. (nal)