Indonesia Warns of Disaster Response 'Fatigue', PFI Calls for Transformation to Complex Approach

Concerns are emerging in Indonesia that the response to frequent natural disasters is leading to 'fatigue' among relevant agencies. The Disaster Management Professional Institute (PFI) has proposed a fundamental review of disaster response and the need for transformation towards a more complex and comprehensive approach. PFI's proposal aims to move away from traditional responses focused solely on single disaster events and build a system capable of addressing modern disaster scenarios where climate change, socio-economic factors, and infrastructure vulnerabilities are intricately intertwined. The institute points out the risk that accumulated fatigue from continuous disaster responses could diminish future crisis management capabilities, emphasizing the urgency of strengthening preventive measures and building sustainable disaster preparedness and mitigation models in deeper cooperation with local communities. Indonesia is constantly exposed to the risks of various natural disasters, including earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, floods, and landslides, requiring swift and effective responses from the government and related agencies. However, as the frequency and scale of disasters have been increasing in recent years, limitations in response resources and the growing mental and physical burden on personnel have become challenges. PFI views this 'disaster fatigue' not merely as a lack of resources but as a structural issue within the response system, calling for a multi-faceted approach that includes the adoption of technological innovations, the strengthening of international cooperation, and, above all, the enhancement of disaster awareness among all citizens.