English Bahasa
 persuratan@kemsos.go.id
  • Pers Release
  • Directorate General of Social Protection and Security

Open Space for Inclusion in Disaster Mitigation, Ministry of Social Affairs Establishes Difagana in Dewata Island

Open Space for Inclusion in Disaster Mitigation, Ministry of Social Affairs Establishes Difagana in Dewata Island
Writer :
Intan Qonita
Translator :
Fia Arista Dewi/Karlina Irsalyana

BADUNG (December 18, 2022) - The Ministry of Social Affairs through the Directorate of Social Protection for Victims of Natural Disasters (PSKBA) provides stabilization for Disaster volunteers with disabilities (Difagana) in Bali Province. Representing the Indonesian Minister of Social Affairs Tri Rismaharini, Plt. Director General of Social Protection and Security (Linjamsos) Robben Rico asked Difagana to be active in the whole series of disaster preparedness.

"Despite having limitations, Difagana friends must also take part in disaster mitigation. So, not only during disaster response," said Robben in his direction at the Preparedness and Mitigation Activities for Persons with Disabilities in Bali Province, Saturday night (17/12).

In line with the theme of the commemoration of National Social Solidarity Day (HKSN) and International Disability Day (HDI) 2022 which are synergized, it is hoped that an inclusive society and the widest possible opportunity for persons with disabilities to play an active role and contribute to the national and international arena can be realized.

"The tagline of the Ministry of Social Affairs is not just a slogan, but a real condition that is implemented in the field. Strengthening disaster preparedness is one of the activities that encourages the growth of social participation, solidarity, and community harmony, especially when faced with various disasters and other social problems," said Robben.

Disaster anticipation needs to be carried out by all elements of society, including persons with disabilities. In accordance with Law Number 8 of 2016 and Regulation of BNPB Number 14 of 2014, persons with disabilities can participate in disaster management and are obliged to develop their independence through capacity building, namely formal and informal education services as well as exercises, simulations, and disaster rehearsals.

"Whatever conditions we have, then we provide any assistance to anyone. This is an honor for friends who will be the pioneers of Difagana Bali. You will be trained according to your respective abilities and placed in special divisions. So, everyone can be empowered and participate in disaster preparedness," said Robben.

Meanwhile, PSKBA Director Iyan Kusmadiana emphasized the importance of the involvement of people with disabilities in disaster management.

"So far, people with disabilities have only been the object of service delivery or assistance because they are considered as one of the vulnerable groups. They are considered as helpless parties, even though they also have potential, are more empathetic, communicative and responsive to the needs of others," said Iyan.

Therefore, Iyan continued, the provision of disaster management materials for persons with disabilities is important.

"Thus, people with disabilities who are affected by disasters can also get access to services that are safe and effective," Iyan said.

The Preparedness and Mitigation Activity for Persons with Disabilities in Bali Province was held on December 17-19, 2022, and was attended by 80 people with disabilities in the Regency / City in Bali Province, 10 social assistants, and a number of foundations for persons with disabilities in Bali. Also present were spokespersons from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), Tagana Center, and Difagana Special Region of Yogyakarta (DIY).

Public Relations Bureau

Ministry of Social Affairs RI

Share :