Prabowo Urges Significant Boost in Disaster Mitigation Budget, Emphasizing Pre-Incident Preparedness

President Prabowo Subianto has called for a substantial increase in the disaster mitigation budget, emphasizing the necessity of proactive preparedness rather than reactive measures after incidents occur. During a limited meeting via video conference with regional heads on Monday, September 7, from the Presidential Palace in Jakarta, Prabowo stated, "We must significantly increase the allocation of disaster mitigation funds." He highlighted Indonesia's location within the Ring of Fire, necessitating constant readiness for earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other disasters. Prabowo instructed the Minister of State Secretary, the Minister of Finance, and the Minister of National Development Planning/Head of Bappenas to prepare a more extensive plan for disaster management needs. He asserted that it is generally better for the government to possess surplus equipment than to face shortages during a disaster, specifically mentioning the need for more helicopters, water pumps, and firefighters. He also requested the deployment of more small excavators in villages prone to forest fires. The government intends to develop a comprehensive master plan for disaster management and mitigation. Prabowo acknowledged that the government's response to recent disasters has been faster compared to previous years, citing massive efforts in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra, as well as in combating forest fires. However, he admitted that delays occurred in some locations and pledged to "take anticipatory steps for the future." "Readiness must be built before the event," Prabowo stressed. "So we are preparing to overcome mitigation, don't wait for the incident. Much earlier we have to prepare." Information Source: VOI English