Authorities in Indonesia's capital Jakarta are experimenting with some shock tactics to fight Covid-19, by displaying an empty coffin at a busy intersection as a reminder of the dangers of the highly contagious virus, Reuters reported.

The words “Covid-19 victim” are painted red on the casket on display in one district of Jakarta, which is the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak in Indonesia.

A manikin wearing a protective suit, mask and face shield, stands by the faux coffin, while a board underneath displays the latest local district's infection and death tally.

“Maybe the action taken by the leadership is a bit extreme but this is how we hope to raise awareness,” said Djaharuddin, chief of Jakarta's Mampang Prapatan subdistrict.