Lawmaker Calls for Unified Disaster Mitigation Command System

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Disaster mitigation efforts by various agencies need stronger institutional integration so coordination, directives, and resource use can operate under a unified command.

Deputy Speaker of Commission V of the House of Representatives (DPR RI), Syaiful Huda, said such integration is crucial for improving the effectiveness of disaster mitigation, from emergency response to post‑disaster recovery.

“I believe institutional integration must be consolidated so that a unified command structure can function effectively,” Syaiful said at the parliamentary complex in Jakarta on Thursday, August 20, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

He noted that institutional integration has become a key proposal within Commission V, as disaster‑related agencies currently operate with separate duties and functions. A single authority, he said, would make disaster mitigation more organized.

Indonesia’s high disaster risk underscores the need for strong coordination. Past experience shows that effective coordination among agencies is essential to use resources efficiently.

Beyond coordination and command, Syaiful said disaster‑related budgets should also be integrated within a single institution. Funds could then be distributed to relevant agencies based on their respective duties and functions.

He believes that establishing an institution with sole authority would strengthen budget support, enabling effective emergency response and post‑disaster recovery.

“This ensures that resources do not stop at the emergency response phase but continue to support the restoration of public services and infrastructure to their pre‑disaster condition,” he said.

Syaiful also emphasized the need for a dedicated disaster budget that cannot be diverted for other purposes. Such a scheme, he said, is essential to ensure disaster mitigation goes beyond short‑term responses and supports sustainable recovery.

Regarding the recent earthquake in East Nusa Tenggara, Syaiful said Commission V has coordinated with the National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas) and the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). The aim is to ensure a rapid response for affected communities and strengthen disaster mitigation and information dissemination.

He stressed that prompt action is vital in disaster mitigation and praised Basarnas for its speed in conducting rescue and evacuation operations.

“We are pleased that the Basarnas team was agile and quick in carrying out rescue operations, allowing us to effectively conduct investigation, mitigation, and above all, evacuation of those directly affected,” he said. ***