In Jakarta, Deputy Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR), Lestari Moerdijat, emphasized the importance of bolstering disaster mitigation measures in anticipation of potential extreme weather during seasonal transitions. Moerdijat highlighted the significance of such initiatives in a statement received on Sunday, noting the geographical and climatic vulnerabilities of Indonesia.
According to Antara News Agency, the susceptibility of Indonesia to various natural disasters, heightened by its positioning amidst volcanoes and the likelihood of extreme weather, necessitates proactive and well-coordinated disaster mitigation strategies. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) has forecasted the conclusion of the moderate El Nino phenomenon by February 2024, indicating the need for heightened preparedness in the interim.
The MPR deputy speaker pointed out the crucial role of educational processes at all levels in enhancing the public’s understanding and ability to effectively respond to disasters. She stressed the importance of integrating disaster mitigation knowledge into the curriculum to equip citizens with the necessary skills and awareness.
Moreover, Moerdijat underscored the need for widespread dissemination of disaster mitigation information among community groups. This initiative aims to elevate their knowledge and preparedness in facing potential calamities.
She also acknowledged the efforts of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) in fostering community resilience. One notable endeavor is the Disaster Resilient Village (Destana) program, launched in 2012, which focuses on developing local capacities to manage and respond to disasters effectively.
Moerdijat believes that a deeper and more widespread understanding of disaster mitigation across all societal levels can significantly enhance the nation’s disaster management capabilities. She asserted that tackling natural disasters requires a collaborative approach, involving both policymakers and community members, to ensure the safety and protection of all residents in Indonesia.