Mount Semeru Erupts, Puan Maharani Asks To Prioritize Residents' Rescue

Puan Maharani asked to prioritize handling victims of the eruption of Mount Semeru. (Special)

JAKARTA - Chairperson of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Puan Maharani, expressed her concern over the eruption of Mount Semeru in East Java. He also asked the government and related agencies to prioritize saving residents.

"We express our deep concern to the people of East Java, especially Lumajang Regency, which is being hit by a volcanic eruption. We hope that there will be no casualties due to the eruption of Mount Semeru," said Puan, Saturday, December 4.

The first woman to serve as Chair of the Indonesian House of Representatives also asked the government to immediately carry out an emergency response. Puan emphasized to local governments to optimize coordination with BPBD, TNI/Polri and various other institutions/agencies.

"Prioritize saving residents affected by the volcanic eruption, especially for residents around Mount Semeru who are trapped around their homes and have not managed to save themselves," he said.

Residents of the village of Curah Kobokan, Lumajang, who are on the slopes of Mount Semeru, are reported to be in need of assistance. Residents who did not have time to leave the village when the eruption occurred are now sheltering in the mosque and needing evacuation because they are trapped in lava.

"Use the potential of the nearest SAR team to help evacuate residents. This must be a priority considering that residents living around the slopes of Semeru do not bring anything when they try to save themselves," said Puan Maharani.

The eruption of Mount Semeru also left two sub-districts in Lumajang in complete darkness. Puan reminded the local government to ensure that the residents' needs are met.

“Logistics to medical equipment must be available for residents of the Semeru eruption victims. The local government also needs to prepare a comfortable refuge for residents, especially for toddlers, children, the elderly, as well as pregnant and lactating women," said the former Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture.

The condition of the eruption of Mount Semeru this time is said to be bigger than in 2020. The eruption that occurred this afternoon caused residents to feel the rain of gravel and mud. "Our residents are expected to always be vigilant and always pay attention to the safety of themselves and their families. Don't approach dangerous and risky areas," concluded Puan Maharani.