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The Indonesian government is making significant strides in smart disaster preparedness and management through the implementation of innovative technology, notably the Disaster Information System (DIS) and the Early Warning System (EWS).
Spearheaded by the Ministry of Communication and Informatics (Kominfo), these initiatives aim to enhance public safety and mitigate the risks associated with natural disasters, particularly in a country that ranks among the most disaster-vulnerable in the world.
On September 23, 2024, Minister of Communication and Information Budi Arie Setiadi inaugurated the EWS Digital service, which utilises digital television broadcasts to deliver timely alerts about impending natural disasters. This service works in conjunction with SMS notifications to ensure that citizens receive critical information shortly before events such as earthquakes and tsunamis occur.
Minister Budi emphasised the government’s commitment to protecting the community, stating, “We hope that the disaster can be minimised; this is part of the protection of the community, the responsibility of the state to the community. Because the state is responsible for protecting all of Indonesia’s bloodshed.”
In partnership with the Japanese government, the Ministry has also developed the Disaster Prevention Information System (DPIS) to further support disaster management efforts across various ministries and institutions. This comprehensive system is designed to facilitate efficient communication and coordination during emergencies, ensuring that relevant agencies are well-informed and can respond swiftly to any disaster scenario.
During the trial of the EWS Digital TV and DPIS, Minister Budi witnessed a live simulation demonstrating the notification system, which features three distinct alarm levels: blue for alert, yellow for caution, and red for immediate action. Each level is accompanied by a corresponding visual display on the digital broadcast screen.
Recognising the importance of these alerts, Minister Budi noted the need to enhance the audibility of the alarm, particularly for the red code, to ensure it captures public attention even during the early hours of the morning.
He noted, “A small sound will not move people,” highlighting the need for more impactful alerts to guarantee public safety. This underscores the critical role that clear and audible warnings play in ensuring that communities are adequately prepared for emergencies.
The operational implementation of the DPIS and EWS Digital TV will involve collaboration among various ministries and institutions, including the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) and the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB). Minister Budi assured that Kominfo would provide the necessary technical assistance to ensure the seamless operation of these systems.
In his inaugural remarks, Minister Budi expressed gratitude to the multiplexing organisers and broadcasting institutions that contributed to the successful implementation of the EWS system on digital TV. He also acknowledged the invaluable support from Japan, including JICA Indonesia and NTT Data Japan, for providing essential equipment that facilitates rapid and reliable disaster information dissemination.
Such contributions are crucial for enabling officers and volunteers to access disaster information quickly and accurately, ultimately reducing the impact of disasters.
Looking ahead, Minister Budi expressed optimism that the DPIS and EWS Digital TV would significantly enhance disaster communication efforts and improve preparedness among communities.
“I hope that Indonesia will be better prepared to face disasters, increase preparedness and rapid response, and minimise the impact of victims,” he stated, underscoring the government’s commitment to safeguarding its citizens from the ever-present threat of natural disasters.
Through these innovative technological solutions, Indonesia aims not only to protect its populace but also to set a benchmark for disaster management and preparedness globally. By effectively utilising cutting-edge technology, the government is laying the groundwork for a more resilient and informed society, equipped to face the challenges posed by natural disasters.
