Strengthening Unity in Facing Disasters

KOMPAS/AGUS SUSANTO

The West Sulawesi Governor\'s Office building collapsed due to an earthquake with a magnitude of 6.2 in Mamuju, West Sulawesi, Sunday (17/1/2021). Heavy equipment from Palu and Makassar has arrived and is ready to be used to assist in the evacuation.

It is extremely exceptional what we are experiencing these days, contrary to what we have prayed for the New Year. Instead of seeing things improve, we’re facing various disasters.

There have been plane crashes, floods, landslides and other hydrometeorological disasters, as well as volcanic eruptions. All happened when we were still struggling to cope with the coronavirus outbreak. Under this difficult situation, we ask the Almighty for strength and patience so that we are able to face all these calamities. Of course, while we have to learn the implication of every disaster and calamity.

Also read: Mamuju in Total Darkness

Another thing that is quite encouraging is the solidarity of citizens and elements of the nation in facing this tough time. Volunteers immediately initiated to organize assistance, while the Indonesian Military (TNI ) and the National Police (Polri) ,the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) and other agencies, such as the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), mobilized their personnel to provide assistance. All of these activities are very touching and encouraging.

We are a nation full of solidarity and love for others. Victims of calamities and disasters are not alone. They receive assistance from their fellow citizens and relevant authorities even though we cannot replace their sorrow when tragedies occur. May the victims of landslides and floods in Sumedang, Manado, as well as a number of cities and districts in South Kalimantan; earthquake victims in Mamuju and Majene, West Sulawesi; victims of the eruptions of Mount Merapi, Sinabung, and Semeru; as well as the victims of the Sriwijaya Air SJ-182 disaster have the strength and patience in facing the difficult situation.

Also read: Some Palu Residents Still at Risk of Earthquakes

Kompas/Heru Sri Kumoro

The families of the Sriwijaya Air SJ-182 PKL-CLC accident victims entered the room to get an explanation from the Police DVI Team about the results of identifying the body at the Ante Mortem Command Post, Kramat Jati Police Hospital, Jakarta, Saturday (16/1/2021).

We hope we will also gain wisdom and positive implication from calamities and disasters, so that we can pass the difficult time well and can reduce the impact of future disasters.

With respect to aviation, as well as land and sea transportation, we need to assess maintenance more carefully because the operation of aircraft and other transportation facilities have declined during the pandemic. Engines and other mechanical products need more careful inspection if they are not used for a long time.

Extra works are needed especially related to disaster mitigation so that the impact will be minimal.

In facing the hydrometeorological disasters, as a learning nation, we should understand the characteristics of the weather at the end and beginning of the year such as the bad weather and its dangers. Extra works are needed especially related to disaster mitigation so that the impact will be minimal, as well as in facing earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Also read: Recovery Lags in Central Sulawesi

We are aware that there are disasters whose potential effects can be controlled, but there are also disasters that are truly devastating beyond our control. No matter how bad the condition is, preparedness and anticipation, as well as appropriate mitigation efforts will be able to reduce their potential impact. No less important, maintaining a harmonious relationship with nature is believed to be able to reduce risks. As we know, floods and landslides will get worse if upstream areas in mountainous areas are destroyed.

Hopefully, in the midst of the pandemic that we don’t know when it will end, we will continue to have the strength, bright thoughts, and unity to face all the disasters that may occur.

This article was translated by Hendarsyah Tarmizi.