NORTH ACEH (30 May 2024) - Social Affairs Minister Tri Rismaharini attended the Santi Aji ceremony to mark the 20th anniversary of the Disaster Response Volunteers (Tagana). The event took place on Tuesday evening (28/5) at the North Aceh Regent's Office field in Keutapang, Lhoksukon District, North Aceh Regency, and was attended by 696 Tagana personnel from across Indonesia.

Tagana's 20th-anniversary celebration was solemn but lively. Tagana personnel from various regions demonstrated their skills, including performing the traditional Acehnese saman dance and reciting poetry. In response, Social Minister Risma read a poem she had written, honoring Tagana's dedication to serving the nation. She also encouraged the volunteers to remain steadfast in their efforts.

"Keep fighting because you are heroes of humanity. Keep holding it in your chest, then you will never give up," said Social Minister Risma to Tagana who was present. She emphasized that Tagana's sincere commitment to helping communities in any situation serves as an inspiration to everyone, including herself.

To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Tagana undertook several initiatives in North Aceh Regency, including the construction of 27 Integrated Welfare Houses (RST) for the elderly. Additionally, Tagana conducted educational sessions on natural and social disaster preparedness in 20 schools. On Wednesday (29/5), Elderly Disaster Response Volunteers (Lansiagana) and 50 students conducted a disaster simulation at the North Aceh Regency Regent's Office field.

Rizal Dinata, Chairman of Tagana for Aceh Province, stated that since 15 May 2024, 270 Tagana personnel have been deployed to build RSTs in 27 districts of North Aceh Regency. Other personnel have been involved in reforestation, participating in the National Elderly Day (HLUN) 2024 commemoration, and the Tagana Goes to School program. "We are grateful to have contributed to the construction of 27 RSTs and carried out reforestation and educational activities," Rizal said.

To commemorate Tagana's 20th anniversary, the Ministry of Social Affairs also facilitated the simultaneous establishment of Disaster Preparedness Villages (KSB) in three locations in North Aceh Regency, namely Matangkuli District, Banda Baro District, and Sawang District. These initiatives involved 275 people. To enhance disaster preparedness, social granaries were set up in six locations, namely Lhoksukon District, two social barns in Cot Girek District, Langkahan District, Piraktimu District and Matakuli District. Each granary is stocked with essential supplies for disaster response, including ready-to-eat food and side dishes, children's food, mattresses, blankets, kidsware, family kits, adult clothing, children's clothing, roll-up tents, family kitchen equipment and velbeds.