- On August 15, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck Flores Island, resulting in 129 fatalities and damaging over 98,000 homes, according to Indonesia's National Disaster Management Agency.
- Following the earthquake, Mount Anak Krakatau erupted late on Friday, causing airport closures due to lava and ash emissions.
- On September 7, President Prabowo Subianto ordered the development of a comprehensive disaster mitigation masterplan as Indonesia faces multiple crises, including the earthquake and ongoing volcanic activity.
- On Tuesday, Puan Maharani called for a study before deciding on the proposed merger of the BMKG and the Geological Agency, emphasizing the need to consider public interest.
- DPR Commission V's Lasarus expressed support in principle for the merger, believing it could enhance Indonesia's disaster mitigation capacity.
- The Indonesian government is currently managing recovery efforts on Flores Island following the earthquake, which has also disrupted around 3,000 flights and affected an estimated 341,000 passengers.
- Indonesia is also facing persistent forest fires, particularly in Kalimantan and Sumatra, with haze affecting regions as far as Brunei and the Philippines.
- President Prabowo highlighted the need for improved disaster preparedness due to Indonesia's location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, which makes it vulnerable to natural hazards.
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has initiated a comprehensive disaster mitigation masterplan as the nation faces multiple crises, including a recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake in Flores Island that resulted in 129 fatalities and significant damage to over 98,000 homes.136
During a virtual cabinet meeting, Prabowo highlighted Indonesia's vulnerability due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire, necessitating improved disaster preparedness. He stated, “This is our fate as a country situated on the Ring of Fire, compelling us to remain prepared for such situations at all times.” The government plans to enhance disaster management resources, including the procurement of helicopters, water pumps, and fire engines tailored for rural areas prone to forest fires.8
In parallel, House Speaker Puan Maharani has called for a study on the proposed merger of the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) with the Geological Agency. She emphasized the need for careful consideration, stating, “Therefore, it would be better to conduct a study first,” while ensuring that any decision must prioritize public interest. Puan indicated that the legislature would support the merger if deemed necessary for operational effectiveness.4
DPR Commission V Speaker Lasarus expressed support for the merger, believing it could strengthen Indonesia’s disaster mitigation capacity. He noted, “The Geological Agency observes volcanic activities. BMKG has instruments related to eruption impacts.” Prabowo has also ordered increased budget allocations for disaster management, aiming to preposition resources before incidents occur.5
“The earthquake on Flores Island killed 129 people and damaged over 98,000 homes, while Mount Anak Krakatau's eruption has disrupted around 3,000 flights and affected 341,000 passengers. Prabowo emphasized the need for preparedness, saying, 'We must prepare long beforehand.'”
ANTARA News
