Disaster Education Important, President Jokowi Says

President Jokowi answers reporters’ questions, at JX International Exhibition, Surabaya, East Java, Saturday (2/2). (Photo by: Fitri/Public Relations).

President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo once again calls for immediate implementation of early warning system and disaster education as school.

He added that restoring the ecosystem must also be taken into account.

“The Almighty God has blessed Indonesia with fertile lands; yet, this country is also situated on the Pacific Ring of fire area that we must keep a watchful eye on it,” the President said after the opening the 2019 National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) and the Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD) National Coordinating Meeting, at JX International Exhibition, Surabaya, East Java, Saturday (2/2

President Jokowi cited an example of mangrove planting. “Mangroves could help withstand tsunami waves prior to its entry to a land,” he added.

As for education on the early warning, President Jokowi said that the BNPB in cooperation with Ministry of Education and Culture has already disseminated disaster education at schools. The President wants related parties to work with local governments, religious leaders or community leaders to educate the public.

“This must be carried out on a massive scale so that all are aware of and understand our condition,” President Jokowi said, adding that most importantly the installation of warning boards and evacuation routes must begin this year. (GUN/FID/ES)

Translated by: Galuh Wicaksono
Edited by: Muhardi