President Prabowo Urges Calm and Vigilance Following Anak Krakatau Eruption

Jakarta, The Gulf Observer: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has urged residents, particularly those in Jakarta, Banten, Lampung and communities surrounding the Sunda Strait, to remain calm and vigilant following renewed volcanic activity at Mount Anak Krakatau.

The President called on the public to strictly follow instructions issued by government authorities and officials at the site, while warning residents against approaching the volcano. He also urged communities to respect established danger zones and safety boundaries.

“Please remain calm, increase vigilance, and follow all directions from the government and officials in the field,” Prabowo said in a statement on Sunday. He stressed that people should not enter the Mount Anak Krakatau area and should fully comply with safety restrictions established by the authorities.

Prabowo said the government has been closely monitoring developments in the volcano’s activity and has received the latest reports and assessments from relevant agencies.

He instructed the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB), Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG), Indonesian military and police, as well as the Ministries of Health and Transportation and other relevant institutions, to maintain close monitoring of the situation.

The President further directed government agencies to strengthen preparedness measures and ensure that adequate protection, assistance and emergency support are available to communities that may be affected.

Addressing areas experiencing volcanic ashfall, Prabowo urged residents to prioritize their health by wearing masks or other appropriate respiratory protection. He also advised people to reduce outdoor activities during periods of heavy ashfall and follow health guidance issued by authorities and local governments.

“Maintain your health by wearing masks or respiratory protection, reduce outdoor activities during heavy ashfall, and follow the instructions of health officials and local governments,” he said.

Prabowo reaffirmed that he would continue to closely monitor developments surrounding Mount Anak Krakatau and take all necessary measures to protect the Indonesian people.

He also called on Indonesians to pray for the safety of communities living around Mount Anak Krakatau and the Sunda Strait.

According to the Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG), a continuous eruption-related earthquake at Anak Krakatau began at 11:07 p.m. local time on Friday, September 4, and ended at 12:04 a.m. on Sunday, September 6.

Although the continuous eruption has ended, PVMBG reported that Mount Anak Krakatau remains active and continues to pose a significant risk of further eruptive activity. Potential hazards include incandescent rock ejections, heavy volcanic ashfall and lava flows.

Authorities have therefore urged residents and visitors to remain outside designated danger zones and closely monitor official updates as volcanic activity continues to be assessed.