State Consolidation Is Considered Weak In Responding To Large Disasters

Photos of air damage to residents' houses after being hit by flash floods in Kota Lintang Village, Kuala Simpang City, Aceh Tamiang Regency, Aceh/ (ANTARA/Syifa Yulinnas/bar)

JAKARTA UGM sociologist Arie Sujito assessed that the large floods that hit Sumatra showed the weak risk management and consolidation of the state when responding to disasters on a large scale that hit regions in Indonesia.

The disaster in Sumatra is a serious sign that risk management has not run properly in various regions. The threat of climate change and ecological damage is increasingly real and cannot be underestimated. This situation shows the weak consolidation of the state in responding to large-scale disasters," he said in a written statement, Sunday, December 7.

According to him, the people of Sumatra have long experience in dealing with disasters, including community solidarity that grows naturally. However, it is not enough if it is not strengthened by the presence of the state. The scale of the disaster makes the role of the government remains the most decisive element. Solidarity grows strong, but large disaster scales still require the role of the country with great resources," he continued.

Arie emphasized that the state must prioritize evacuation, basic needs, and provision of temporary housing as an emergency measure that cannot be postponed. Fulfillment of food, drink, medicines, clothing, and safe living spaces is the initial basis for recovery.

These steps must be accompanied by clear medium-term planning so that people can rise faster. Social recovery requires strong logistical support and cross-sectoral coordination.

Meanwhile, in the post-disaster phase, social trauma often occurs along with the physical losses suffered by residents. Therefore, recovery does not stop at repairing houses or public facilities, but also on efforts to restore a sense of security and community resilience.

He emphasized the need for fast support services so that people do not get caught up in prolonged post-crisis situations. This is an important experience that emphasizes the need for stronger cross-sector planning. Crisis like this demands a combination of the performance of the central, regional and cross-sectoral governments," concluded Arie.