BNPB disaster mitigation budget faces significant cuts

Following a magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) that killed over 50 people and displaced approximately 92,735 residents, concerns have been raised regarding disaster mitigation funding in Indonesia.

While emergency response funds remain elastic, reports indicate a significant reduction in the pre-disaster mitigation budget. The National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB) budget for 2026 is set at Rp491 billion, a sharp decline from Rp2.01 trillion in 2025, marking its lowest level in 15 years. This allocation represents only 0.013% of the total state expenditure. BNPB has requested an additional Rp936.57 billion to support risk education and early warning systems.

As the emergency response status in NTT has been extended to September 12, 2026, experts warn of a potential gap in care. Once the emergency phase ends, there is a risk that medical, logistical, and psychological support for survivors—including those with chronic illnesses, disabilities, and injuries—may diminish before local capacities are fully restored.