THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON THE USE OF URBAN PUBLIC FACILITIES: EVIDENCE FROM INDONESIA, JAPAN, AND EGYPT

Abstract

Since COVID-19 emerged in Asia, the function of urban public facilities has been adapted to adapt to the pandemic conditions. This article discusses the use of public facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia, Japan, and Egypt using responses obtained from a questionnaire. The data retrieved were analyzed using the T-test statistical method and descriptive analysis. The results showed that the intensity of public facilities usage was reduced after community activities were restricted. Moreover, the decision to use the facilities tended to be based on the implementation of health protocols regardless of the distance from their homes. This is evident from the number of visits to modern shopping places rather than traditional markets to fulfill daily needs despite the longer distance and this indicates the focus on security and comfort. Information technology was also considered quite helpful in handling the pandemic as well as the latest information related to the development of the pandemic obtained quite easily from print media, announcements in several public facilities, and easily accessible websites.