The Indonesian Ministry of Transportation has reinstated the mandatory use of the SatuSehat mobile app for all passengers traveling internationally, following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recent declaration of monkeypox (Mpox) as a public health emergency of international concern. The policy was implemented through the Circular Letter of the Director General of Air Transportation No. SE 5 DJPU of 2024, and took effect on August 27, 2024.

Maria Kristi Endah Murni, Director General of Air Transportation, confirmed the measure in a written statement on Wednesday, August 28. “Foreign travelers flying to Indonesia must fill out an electronic self-declaration form called the SATUSEHAT Health Pass,” Kristi explained. The app, which was previously known as PeduliLindungi, now serves as a digital health information service designed to mitigate the spread of health threats, including Mpox.

The SatuSehat Health Pass, which travelers are required to complete at their departure airport, will play a critical role in monitoring and controlling the spread of Mpox within Indonesia. Kristi has also communicated with airlines operating flights to and from Indonesia, urging them to inform their flight personnel and passengers about the mandatory electronic self-declaration form.

In addition to these measures, airport authorities across Indonesia have been instructed to coordinate closely with the Health Quarantine Center to prevent Mpox transmission at airports. This collaboration includes the necessary treatment for passengers suspected of being infected with monkeypox before they reach the international arrival gates.

“I have instructed the Director of Aviation Security and the Head of the Airport Authority Office to oversee the implementation of this circular,” Kristi added, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and adherence to the new guidelines.

The SatuSehat app, which replaced PeduliLindungi on March 1, 2023, has been an essential tool for travelers, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, when it was used to track vaccination history—a key requirement for international travel at the time. Now, as Indonesia confronts the potential threat of Mpox, the app is once again at the forefront of the nation’s efforts to safeguard public health.