Indonesian Red Cross strengthens regional disaster preparedness

In celebration of the 81st anniversary of the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI), regional branches in Banten and Batang are intensifying disaster preparedness efforts.

In Banten Province, PMI Chairperson Ratu Tatu Chasanah announced the formation of Community-Based Disaster Preparedness (Sibat) units in villages with high disaster potential. Currently, 53 villages have established these units, each consisting of 30 to 40 trained volunteers. The initiative aims to ensure local residents understand specific regional risks, such as landslides in Lebak Regency and flooding in Serang Regency. The program is being implemented gradually to cover the province's extensive disaster maps.

In Batang Regency, PMI held a simulation to address forest and land fire (karhutla) risks, particularly during the dry season. The exercise involved various volunteer groups, including the Korps Sukarela (KSR) and the Muhammadiyah Disaster Management Center (MDMC). Local officials emphasized the importance of these simulations to mitigate environmental damage and community disruption, noting that certain areas like Subah District remain high-risk due to their teak and pine forests.