Social Minister Directives to Increase Preparedness in Anticipating Disasters on the Southern Coast of Java and Sumatra Islands

JAKARTA (July 21, 2021) - The Minister of Social Affairs, Tri Rismaharini attended the invitation of the Directorate General of Social Protection and Security to provide directions related to increasing preparedness in anticipating disasters on the South Coast of Java and Sumatra which was held through a zoom meeting.

In this meeting the Minister of Social Affairs, Tri Rismaharini recalled during the Tsunami Earthquake in Palu in 2018 that the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) had warned but there was no response from the community so that many victims, "Therefore I hope that later understand about the impact and the dangers, please immediately take anticipatory steps, because apart from anticipatory equipment, it is the most important thing. I ask that after this we immediately take steps how to effectively anticipate residents, "explained Risma.

In addition, Risma said that in a disaster it is very difficult to communicate, therefore communication is needed with those who have technical expertise, such as ORARI, RAPI, and so on. Risma hopes to cooperate with all parties so that they can work together as soon as possible. "We must not underestimate the predictions made by BMKG because they are academic predictions, which are decided according to technical conditions in the field and the truth can be believed," said Risma.

In handling these cases, it is not only necessary equipment but also needs to be done to increase the understanding, awareness and capacity of the tourist community and workers in the coastal area, especially through; routinely providing literacy and public education through social media/digital media/print and electronic media, as well as routinely conducting field rehearsals for evacuation or independent evacuation from the threat of tsunami hazards through prepared routes and tests.

On this occasion, Risma also submitted a proposal so that all people from children, the elderly, and people with sensory disabilities can understand and be aware of a disaster, "In houses, signs are given for people with sensory disabilities, or the elderly. For example, the level is already dangerous and they have to evacuate, then the person concerned and we all know that there are elderly or disabled people," said Risma.

Being in a place that is very vulnerable to disaster is a gift from God that cannot be changed but can be avoided by learning to understand ways to evacuate and save yourself.