Indonesia prioritizes Earthquake and Tsunami Mitigation Despite Budget Cuts
Table of Contents
- 1. Indonesia prioritizes Earthquake and Tsunami Mitigation Despite Budget Cuts
- 2. Budget Revisions and Continued Investment
- 3. Prioritizing Community Wellbeing
- 4. Maintaining Preparedness for Natural Disasters
- 5. How effective is the BMKG’s earthquake and tsunami mitigation strategy, considering Indonesia’s geographical vulnerabilities and the recent budget cuts?
- 6. Indonesia Prioritizes Earthquake and Tsunami Mitigation Despite Budget Cuts
- 7. Interview with Dwikorita Karnawati, Head of the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG)
Despite government-wide budget efficiency measures, Indonesia remains committed to mitigating the risks posed by earthquakes and tsunamis. The Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) will maintain its allocated budget of Rp41.9 billion specifically for these crucial initiatives.
“Our budget for earthquake and tsunami mitigation is Rp41.9 billion, and it will remain unchanged, including funds for earthquake field school activities,” BMKG Head Dwikorita Karnawati confirmed during a budget hearing with the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) on Wednesday.
This commitment extends to other essential public services provided by BMKG. The Rp70 million allocated for climate information services will also be preserved.
Budget Revisions and Continued Investment
Although BMKG’s initial 2025 budget was set at Rp2.8 trillion, it was reduced by 50 percent to Rp1.4 trillion due to the national efficiency policy.However, after discussions with the Ministry of Finance, BMKG’s revised budget has been increased to Rp1.7 trillion.
“On Tuesday, I met with the Director General of Budget, along with representatives from other ministries. A budget revision was made, allowing BMKG to receive Rp1.7 trillion,” Karnawati explained.
Karnawati expressed her hope for Commission V’s support in legally ratifying this revised budget.
Prioritizing Community Wellbeing
President Prabowo Subianto has directed a reduction of Rp306 trillion (nearly US$18.7 billion) in the overall government budget. This savings will be strategically allocated to support key community programs,including free nutritious meals,food and energy self-sufficiency,and enhancements to the health sector.
Maintaining Preparedness for Natural Disasters
Indonesia’s dedication to earthquake and tsunami mitigation is crucial given its geographic location and susceptibility to natural disasters.Continuous investment in early warning systems, preparedness programs, and public education is essential to protect lives and property.
By prioritizing disaster preparedness, Indonesia demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding its citizens and building a more resilient nation.
How effective is the BMKG’s earthquake and tsunami mitigation strategy, considering Indonesia’s geographical vulnerabilities and the recent budget cuts?
Indonesia Prioritizes Earthquake and Tsunami Mitigation Despite Budget Cuts
Interview with Dwikorita Karnawati, Head of the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG)
Indonesia’s commitment to earthquake and tsunami mitigation remains steadfast despite nationwide budget efficiency measures. Archyde News Editor sat down with Dwikorita Karnawati,Head of the Meteorology,Climatology,and Geophysics Agency (BMKG),to discuss the agency’s budget allocation and its continued efforts to safeguard the nation from natural disasters.
Archyde: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us, Dr.Karnawati. Given the recent government-wide budget cuts, can you elaborate on how the BMKG is ensuring continued investment in earthquake and tsunami mitigation?
Dwikorita Karnawati: You’re welcome. It’s critically important to prioritize the safety and well-being of our citizens, especially in a country as geographically vulnerable as Indonesia. Despite the overall budget reductions, we are pleased to confirm that our allocated budget for earthquake and tsunami mitigation remains at Rp41.9 billion. This includes crucial funding for earthquake field school activities, which are vital for educating and empowering communities to prepare for and respond to seismic events.
Archyde: That’s reassuring to hear. Can you provide some details about the revised budget for the BMKG and how this allocation will support your agency’s mission?
Dwikorita Karnawati: Initially, our 2025 budget was set at Rp2.8 trillion, but due to the national efficiency policy, it was reduced by 50 percent to Rp1.4 trillion. Though, after discussions with the Ministry of Finance, our revised budget has been increased to Rp1.7 trillion. This revised budget allows us to continue providing essential public services, including climate facts services, which are crucial for disaster preparedness and lasting advancement.
Archyde: With the government’s focus on community well-being, how does the BMKG’s work contribute to this broader national goal?
Dwikorita Karnawati: Our work directly contributes to community well-being by providing early warning systems, preparedness programs, and public education on earthquake and tsunami risks. By equipping communities with the knowledge and tools to mitigate these risks, we are helping to protect lives, property, and livelihoods. Ultimately, our goal is to build a more resilient Indonesia that is better prepared to face the challenges of natural disasters.
Archyde: Looking ahead, what are some of the key challenges and opportunities facing the BMKG in its mission to protect Indonesia from natural disasters?
Dwikorita karnawati: One of the biggest challenges is ensuring adequate funding for research, development, and maintenance of our early warning systems.we also need to continue to improve public awareness and education on disaster preparedness. However, we are also seeing opportunities to leverage technology, such as artificial intelligence and big data, to enhance our forecasting capabilities and improve disaster response.
Archyde: Thank you for your insights, Dr. Karnawati. It’s clear that the BMKG plays a vital role in safeguarding Indonesia’s future.
What are your thoughts on the BMKG’s commitment to earthquake and tsunami mitigation, especially in light of Indonesia’s vulnerability to these natural disasters? Share your views in the comments below.