The Republic of Indonesia’s Minister of Social Affairs, Tri Rismaharini, has urged the Balinese people to raise awareness and strengthen disaster preparedness, starting with the Banjars, the smallest indigenous group in the region.
She is optimistic that if disaster preparedness can be built from the Banjar, Balinese people will be more resilient and responsive to the range of potential disasters that exist in their communities.
“Normally, Kelian Banjar, a Banjar community leader, can easily educate the community. If this spreads all over Bali and makes Bali more resilient to disasters,” said Risma, referring to the disaster prevention village in Legian, Bali.
Bali Become A Role Model
According to Risma, the characteristics of Balinese communities are friendlier compared to communities in other regions, so knowledge and awareness of Balinese preparations can be spread more easily.
“It is important for all citizens in Indonesia to understand how to save themselves at least to protect themselves from the threat of disaster and later in the future apart from being for citizens, it can also be for children so that they become educated starting from an early age” added Risma
Therefore, She is optimistic that Bali can become a role model and inspire other regions to strengthen the capacity of people to face the threat of disasters.
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“There must be an example so that other residents care,” said RIsma during her visit to the Dalam Kahyangan Temple in Legian.
Risma also shared a story from her trip to Mexico to learn more about disaster preparedness.
“Mexico is emerging as a disaster-prone region, but it’s no surprise because its residents are prepared. There is a kind of siren every week that you can use to practice saving yourself.”
Risma also has a background in architecture, and she also communicated to the trainees the importance of earthquake-resistant buildings, especially in earthquake-prone areas.
“If possible, we can preserve traditional buildings. In fact, our ancestors already understood how earthquakes happen” added Risma.
The disaster preparedness training site in Legian was the first site Risma visited after arriving in Bali to attend the National Social Solidarity Day celebrations held on Tuesday (12/20) in Klungkung, central Bali.
In Legian, she not only gave directions and shared insights but also took the time to listen to questions and requests from residents, one of which was regarding assistance with tools to support disaster preparedness including food and drink logistics supplies.
