"The preparedness to handle disasters is not solely the government's responsibility, but all stakeholders, including the community, private sector, and media, must also synergize efforts to build resilience in the event of disasters," Deputy Governor of Bali Tjokorda Oka Artha Ardana Sukawati (Cok Ace) remarked while receiving a visit from Disaster Management Delegation of the German Foreign Ministry in Denpasar on Friday.
Cok Ace remarked that Bali, as the world's tourism destination, should ensure that disaster management preparedness becomes the key focus to ensure that visitors feel comfortable and safe.
"We regularly conduct disaster preparedness simulations, coordination, and communication in addition to edifying the masses on lowering the risks of disaster," he revealed.
Hence, he believes all sides must gain awareness of the protocol to be followed when a disaster strikes.
In the meantime, Chief of Staff of the Crisis Response Center Tina Debenham, leading the delegation, lauded Bali for its numerous efforts to cope with disasters.
"In future, we are prepared to cooperate with Bali in the area of disaster management. Consequently, Bali, as the world's tourism destination, can ensure security and comfort to travelers," Debenham emphasized.
Acting Head of the Bali Provincial Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) I Made Rentin pointed to the local government's various efforts in realizing community resilience and preparedness in the event of disasters.
The BPBD has forged cooperation with all stakeholders in connection with conducting disaster preparedness mock-ups for disasters, such as earthquakes and tsunamis.
"The agency has also readied an evacuation scheme and post-disaster handling mechanism, such as the system for evacuating tourists following the closure of Ngurah Rai Airport when Mount Agung erupts," Rentin explained.
Rentin further elaborated that as a post-disaster handling mechanism, the Bali provincial government will offer land transportation to reach the closest airport and offer accommodation to tourists.
"In future, we will strive to consistently enhance the quality of preparedness by incorporating a tsunami early warning system, increasing the quality of members and volunteers, and developing stronger resilience for tackling disaster in the community. We want to build a disaster-resilient village," Rentin affirmed.
Translator: Ni Luh, Azis Kurmala
Editor: Sri Haryati
Copyright © ANTARA 2019
