Reflection On The 20 Years Of The Aceh Tsunami, The United World Strengthens Disaster Mitigation

Simposium on tsunamis in commemoration of 20 years of stunami in Aceh. (IST)

JAKARTA - A total of 54 countries have agreed on a joint commitment to strengthen tsunami risk mitigation in the 2nd UNESCO-IOC Global Tsunami Symposium, which was officially closed by the BMKG on Thursday 14 November. This event lasted for five days in Banda Aceh, the city that witnessed the devastating tsunami disaster in 2004.

BMKG's Deputy for Geophysics, Nelly Florida Riama, said that this oversight was a reflection of the development of the tsunami early warning system over the past two decades. The participants discussed global challenges and compiled priorities to increase the effectiveness of the early warning system and community preparedness.

"Discussions during this monument strengthen international collaborative efforts, bring us closer to a future that is safer from the risk of a tsunami," said Nelly when closing the event at the Hermes Palace Hotel, Banda Aceh, as written statement received by VOI.

He also appreciated the contribution of experts who shared their best knowledge and practices in disaster mitigation. "Their expertise enriches insight and motivates innovative strategies to mitigate tsunami risk," he added. Nelly hopes that participants will continue to develop innovation in their respective countries so that this commitment produces real action to save more lives.

Meanwhile, Acting Mayor of Banda Aceh, Ade Surya, highlighted the success of the city in rising post-tsunami. Two decades after the disaster, Banda Aceh has become a more resilient region, supported by modern infrastructure, advanced early warning systems, and people who are more aware of potential disasters.

"We continue to be committed to increasing mitigation, both through infrastructure development and strengthening human resource capacity," said Ade.

He also emphasized the importance of remembering the Aceh tsunami as a valuable lesson for future generations. "From Aceh, we leave a message to the world: never be careless about the threat of disaster," concluded Ade.