Every year several regions in Indonesia face weather anomaly which is difficult to predict. That's why we deem it necessary to prepare a plan to face the disaster
Kendari, SE Sulawesi (ANTARA) - Head of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) Lt. Gen. Doni Monardo has called on regional governments across Indonesia to prepare plans to address the impact of weather anomaly. "Every year several regions in Indonesia face weather anomaly which is difficult to predict. That is why we deem it necessary to prepare a plan to face the disaster," he said here Monday.

Since early this year, some 150 areas in the country have borne the brunt of natural disasters including floods, landslides, droughts, earthquakes, high waves and strong winds, he said.

The regions that are at high risk of facing these natural disasters must put in place contingency plans to prevent and control the impact of these disasters and increase the capacity of institutions, officers and residents to anticipate them, he said.

"The concept of identifying the threat of disasters is important so (the affected people) will not panic at least to save themselves and help other people," he said.

Financial support from regional governments is also very important to prevent and control disasters, he said.

Adequate funding is the key to maximizing disaster prevention and control efforts, said Chief of the House of Representatives' Commission VIII Ali Taher Parasong.

"The House Commission VIII is a genuine partner of the BNPB. From year to year, the budget fund for disaster prevention and control efforts increases. The state pays serious attention to its residents who face disasters," he said.

The National Mandate Party (PAN) politician expressed the hope that provincial and district/municipal governments, along with local legislative councils will also allocate sufficient funds for disaster prevention and control efforts.

Translator: Sarjono, Suharto
Editor: Bambang Purwanto
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