By: Ricky Rinaldi )*
The government has emphasized that national resilience in the face of disasters is a non-negotiable strategic priority, particularly following the floods that hit several areas in Sumatra. In this context, the state is present not merely as a provider of emergency assistance, but as a disaster risk manager, working systematically, planned, and sustainably. This approach places public safety at the heart of policy, while strengthening the foundation of national development amidst the challenges of climate change and extreme weather.
President Prabowo Subianto emphasized that the government’s response to the floods in Sumatra must reflect the state’s decisiveness in protecting its citizens. According to the President, disaster management must not stop at the reactive stage but rather be part of an integrated national strategy encompassing mitigation, preparedness, emergency response, and recovery. With this framework, every disaster becomes a momentum to strengthen national capacity to face similar risks in the future.
The President believes that the flooding in Sumatra demonstrates the importance of cross-sectoral and cross-regional coordination. The central government, regional governments, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Indonesian National Police (Polri), and all disaster management elements are being asked to work under a single, clear command to ensure swift and targeted evacuation, aid distribution, and recovery. This affirmation reflects a leadership approach that places the state’s presence firmly within the affected communities.
Within the framework of national resilience, the President also highlighted the importance of disaster infrastructure and logistics preparedness. Road access, bridges, distribution routes, and alternative transportation must be ensured to ensure aid can reach affected areas without interruption. The government views the speed of aid distribution as a key factor in mitigating the continued impact of disasters, both in terms of humanity and social stability.
President Prabowo also emphasized that flood management in Sumatra must be accompanied by medium- and long-term recovery measures. Restoring basic infrastructure, housing, and economic activities are the primary focus so that affected areas can recover quickly. In the President’s view, effective recovery involves not only restoring physical conditions but also maintaining public confidence in the state’s capacity to weather crises.
The President also identified disasters as a national challenge that requires an adaptive approach to climate change. The government is directed to strengthen early warning systems, environmental governance, and more sustainable spatial planning. Thus, disaster management policies are not isolated but integrated with the broader national development agenda.
Once the President’s policy direction has been comprehensively confirmed, technical implementation on the ground is key to success. In this context, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) plays a central role as the spearhead of national disaster coordination.
Abdul Muhari, Head of the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB)’s Center for Data, Information, and Communication, explained that flood management in Sumatra was carried out through measured and layered resource mobilization. BNPB ensures that disaster data is collected in real time to support rapid and accurate decision-making. This data-driven approach allows the government to adjust the scale of its response according to the level of impact in each region.
The distribution of logistical aid is a top priority during the emergency response phase. The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is coordinating with relevant ministries and agencies to ensure the availability of basic necessities such as food, clean water, healthcare, and emergency supplies for affected residents. Aid distribution is carried out through various channels, including land, sea, and air, to reach areas hampered by flooding.
In addition to logistical assistance, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) is also focusing on the evacuation process and protecting vulnerable groups. Children, the elderly, and people with disabilities are among those receiving special attention in the disaster management framework. This approach aligns with national policy, which prioritizes humanitarian aspects as the primary foundation of disaster response.
In the next phase, the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) plays a role in supporting post-disaster recovery through coordination of rehabilitation and reconstruction. Abdul Muhari emphasized that recovery targets not only physical improvements but also social and economic recovery for communities. This way, affected areas will not only return to their original condition but also be more resilient to potential future disasters.
Overall, the synergy between President Prabowo Subianto’s policy direction and the technical implementation carried out by the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening national resilience. Flood management in Sumatra is not only a response to the crisis but also part of a national learning process in facing increasingly complex disaster challenges. With an integrated, data-driven approach that prioritizes public safety, the government demonstrates a strong commitment to maintaining national stability while protecting the future of the Indonesian people.
)* Strategic Issue Observer
