Social Affairs Minister Risma Learns to Wrap Rice from Tagana

JAKARTA (April 2, 2021) - The Social Affairs Minister Tri Rismaharini admitted that she learned a lot from the Disaster Voluntary Workers (Tagana), including when she visited Mamuju when the earthquake struck.

"Yesterday, when (earthquake occurred) in Mamuju, I learned how to wrap rice from the Tagana personnel. It turns out, in an emergency like that, rubber is not needed," said the Minister of Social Affairs when giving directions at the peak of the 17th Tagana Anniversary event which broadcast live through the Linjamsos Oke YouTube channel recently.

Later, those from outside Java, said the Minister of Social Affairs, might be able to learn more. "So, later when you wrap rice, you don't need to use rubber. If the rubber runs out,  how do you wrap it," she said anticipating small things in the field to the Tagana personnel.

"There is a theory, I still remember to put it like this," said Risma while demonstrating how to wrap rice using the paper she was holding.

Risma also encourages Tagana to continue learning from fellow Taganas who know disaster handling, so that Tagana's performance accelerated when a disaster occurs.

"Come on, let's learn from each other, and increase our existing knowledge, so we can be efficient and work faster. So, we can help more people," said this former Mayor of Surabaya for two terms.

The Minister of Social Affairs said that when dealing with disasters, Tagana became like other people. "Sometimes, we don't know whether he's Tagana or not. So, you will find out if you're wearing a uniform and unite like this," joked Risma.

However, she testified that Tagana worked for real. "I witness that they are working, they are doing their best for the community when a disaster occurs. I am a witness," said the Minister of Social Affairs.

Therefore, once again, she thanked Tagana personnel throughout Indonesia, "The 17th Anniversary of Tagana, is a mature age. Let's prove it with Tagana's existence, and we will revive cooperation," she said.

"I know, even some (Tagana personnel) are quite old. I also don't want to tell you to lift the tent. However, the old personnel don't mind and said that they are fine and strong. What matters is the spirit remains young," concluded the Minister of Social Affairs, ending with Tagana chants which were joined by all Tagana personnel at the location.