Govt ensures stable mask supply amid Mount Anak Krakatau ash fallout

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3 hours ago

Jakarta (ANTARA) – Indonesia’s Ministry of Health is coordinating with manufacturers and distributors to ensure a stable supply of face masks following reports of price gouging amid volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Anak Krakatau.

Some media outlets have reported that mask prices have surged by up to tenfold as air quality deteriorates due to the eruption.

“Businesses are urged not to hoard or restrict supplies, which causes scarcity and unreasonable price hikes that ultimately harm the public,” Head of the Ministry’s Communication and Public Information Bureau Aji Muhawarman said here on Tuesday.

Muhawarman noted that the shortage is currently limited to the retail level in several locations, while stockpiles at the manufacturer and distributor levels remain sufficient.

He emphasized that the ministry will continue to monitor the situation. Those found hoarding masks or engaging in price gouging could face criminal charges or administrative sanctions, ranging from official warnings to the revocation of business licenses.

“If the public discovers alleged hoarding or unreasonable price hikes, they can report it through our complaint channels via WhatsApp at 0821-1487-0070 or 0838-3003-2003, or through the Mobile Alkes application,” he added.

Muhawarman also urged the public to avoid panic buying and purchase masks only as needed to prevent localized shortages.

Because volcanic ash particles are microscopic and abrasive, the ministry advises the public to use N95, KN95, KF94, or equivalent respirators. However, standard medical masks can be used as an alternative when those respirators are unavailable.

To support affected communities, the ministry has stepped up the deployment of health logistics.

More than 100,000 N95 and medical masks, thousands of safety goggles, medicines, and medical equipment have been distributed free of charge to the worst-affected areas in Lampung, Banten, West Java, and Jakarta.

“The Health Ministry, alongside local governments and related agencies, continues to monitor the availability, distribution, and prices of masks. We are ensuring that supplies remain accessible to people in areas affected by volcanic ash,” Muhawarman said.

Earlier, the Geological Agency said the continuous eruptive episode of Mount Anak Krakatau had ended after lasting 25 hours, from Friday (September 4) at 11:07 p.m. local time (GMT+7) to Sunday (September 6) at 12:04 a.m.

However, smaller eruptions have continued to occur. The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) recorded five eruptions on Tuesday as of 6:45 p.m. local time, each lasting between 10 and 31 seconds.