"There are still potentials for disasters that can be triggered by natural phenomena, although the East Kalimantan region is in a relatively safe area," he noted here on Friday.
Suharyanto also said that East Kalimantan's abundant natural resources should be utilized properly, not excessively, and prioritize nature sustainability.
"In the disaster risk reduction study, (East Kalimantan) is relatively unlikely to experience disasters. However, that does not mean lack of vigilance because with such fertile nature and abundant resources, if not careful in managing it, can result in disasters," the BNPB chief stated at the Intermediate Treatment Facility (ITF) in Balikpapan, East Kalimantan.
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Suharyanto stated that based on the disaster risk assessment, the East Kalimantan region differs from other locations in Indonesia in terms of the absence of volcanoes that makes this province free from the risk of volcanic disasters.
Historically, it is recorded that East Kalimantan is rarely hit by significant earthquakes that could cause tsunamis.
Despite the minimal risk of volcanic and geological disasters, the East Kalimantan region is exposed to extreme weather that can lead to disaster.
According to a report, Suharyanto said that the recent extreme weather in Samarinda City, the capital of East Kalimantan, had claimed one life.
"In Samarinda, strong winds have resulted in one death. Hence, all components of the nation, all stakeholders in East Kalimantan related to disaster mitigation, must keep vigilant and alert," he emphasized.
Earlier, the BNPB Chief, the East Kalimantan governor, House of Representatives’ (DPR) Commission VIII, East Kalimantan's policymakers, and disaster mitigation volunteers, planted 770 trees on the slopes at the Intermediate Treatment Facility in Balikpapan to enhance long-term ecological mitigation.
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Translator: Devi R, Kenzu
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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