By: Bara Winatha*)
The case of radioactive contamination of Cesium-137 (Cs-137) in the Modern Industrial Estate, Cikande, Serang Regency, Banten, has sparked serious public concern. The government, the House of Representatives (DPR), and law enforcement officials have moved quickly to respond to this issue to protect public safety and the environment, as well as maintain global confidence in Indonesia’s safety standards. This incident serves as a momentum for the government to affirm its commitment to addressing any threats related to the environment and public health in a decisive, measured, and transparent manner.
Environment Minister Hanif Faisol Nurofik stated that this case should not be taken lightly because Cesium-137 is a radioactive substance that can only be produced from a nuclear reactor, and Indonesia does not possess any. He emphasized that strong suspicions point to the importation of this hazardous material from abroad without strict oversight. Therefore, the government, through his ministry, immediately designated the Cikande area as a special radiation contamination incident. This step was taken to ensure that the entire handling process is under the full control of a cross-sectoral task force, eliminating any loopholes that could lead to broader impacts on public health or the environment.
The Ministry of Environment and the Environmental Protection Agency (Bappenas) declared a special incident as a key step in ensuring all parties follow the same procedures. A cross-ministerial team, including the Nuclear Energy Regulatory Agency (BAPETEN), the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), and the police, immediately collaborated to close the eight identified locations. The decontamination process was carried out carefully according to international standards, ensuring that radioactive materials could be removed and secured in special storage facilities. The government also tightened monitoring of entry and exit from the industrial area by installing Radiation Portal Monitoring (RPM) equipped with modern detection equipment.
Beyond relying solely on technical measures, the government has also established a public communications and education team. This team consists of healthcare workers, Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) and Indonesian National Police (Polri) personnel, religious leaders, and community leaders tasked with providing information on the dangers of radiation and preventative measures. This communication strategy is crucial for reassuring the public and building awareness that the government is fully in control of the response. This way, the public can continue their daily activities without panic.
Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs and Head of the Task Force for Handling the Danger of Radiation Vulnerability from the Radionuclide Cs-137, Zulkifli Hasan, stated that the government is moving quickly, prioritizing a scientific approach in accordance with international standards. He emphasized that all efforts are being carried out with the principles of caution, transparency, and accountability. Zulkifli emphasized that this case must not harm the reputation of exports, particularly shrimp, a commodity that is one of Indonesia’s mainstays in the global market.
Zulkifli also revealed that the investigation showed that the contamination occurred only in the Cikande industrial area and did not spread to the national supply chain or exports. The government has declared a special incident status for this area to focus on handling. A total of 1,562 workers and local residents have undergone health checks, and the results showed no serious impacts. The government is also taking preventative measures by tightening supervision at Tanjung Priok Port to prevent contaminated containers from entering distribution channels. The government will continue to ensure the national shrimp industry remains safe, healthy, and competitive in the international market.
From the legislative side, the Speaker of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, stated that the House of Representatives (DPR RI) will seriously carry out its oversight function regarding this case. She emphasized that several relevant commissions, including the environmental, industrial, and health commissions, will be involved to ensure comprehensive oversight. Puan emphasized that this incident must not be repeated in the future. Therefore, the source of the radioactive contamination must be shut down and thoroughly evaluated.
Puan also urged law enforcement officials to immediately investigate the origin of the radioactive material. If a company is proven to be involved, strict sanctions must be imposed, as this concerns public safety. She stated that there can be no compromise when it comes to the environment and public health. Legislators will continue to ensure the government acts swiftly and transparently. The House of Representatives’ oversight function extends beyond meetings to direct monitoring in the field.
Beyond technical aspects, the government is also paying close attention to public health. The Ministry of Health has conducted intensive monitoring of residents in the surrounding area. Individuals with higher levels of contamination underwent further testing using a Whole Body Counter (WBC). All test results indicated that the community’s condition remained within safe limits. The government emphasized that it will continue long-term monitoring to ensure that no health impacts are overlooked.
The government’s swift and decisive action has also received full support from various groups. Academics consider the policy of establishing special zones a strategic step that is highly appropriate because it prevents the spread of the impact. Businesses also welcomed it, as swift action can maintain international market confidence. Community leaders even noted that the public awareness campaign conducted by the communications team helped reduce public unrest.
This rapid response is clear evidence of the country’s full presence in the face of serious threats such as radioactive exposure. Through cross-sector collaboration, the government has successfully demonstrated that public safety is its top priority. With a swift, transparent, and measured response, Indonesia has not only succeeded in mitigating risks but also strengthened its legitimacy in the eyes of both the public and the international community.
*)The author is a social and community observer.
