President Prabowo Calls for Comprehensive Disaster Mitigation Master Plan

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has called for the establishment of a comprehensive national disaster mitigation master plan, stressing the need to strengthen the country’s preparedness and response capabilities in view of Indonesia’s location on the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Addressing a virtual cabinet meeting on disaster management from Merdeka Palace in Jakarta, President Prabowo said Indonesia’s geographical characteristics make the country highly vulnerable to a wide range of natural hazards and require the government to maintain a high level of preparedness at all times.

The President noted that the government is currently addressing several disaster-related challenges, including post-earthquake rehabilitation efforts on Flores Island, increased volcanic activity at Mount Anak Krakatau, and continuing forest and land fires in various parts of the country.

President Prabowo instructed his cabinet and relevant authorities to ensure that disaster management resources, equipment and other essential assets are prepositioned well in advance of potential emergencies.

He also called for expanded use of aircraft in weather modification operations and directed officials to explore the deployment of heavy-lift drones for aerial firefighting operations.

Emphasizing the importance of preventive action, the President said disaster mitigation measures must be undertaken well before incidents occur rather than waiting for emergencies to develop.

To support the enhanced preparedness measures, President Prabowo announced plans to increase budget allocations for disaster mitigation. He also ordered the procurement of additional helicopters, water pumps, fire engines and small excavators specifically suited to rural and fire-prone areas.

During the meeting, the President further requested comprehensive progress reports from local governments, ministries and national agencies regarding ongoing disaster response and rehabilitation efforts in Flores Island, at Mount Anak Krakatau and in regions affected by forest and land fires.

The measures form part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen Indonesia’s disaster preparedness, improve emergency response capabilities and enhance national resilience against natural hazards.