Jakarta (ANTARA) - Broadcasting Commission of Indonesia (KPI) Head Ubaidillah called on broadcast media outlets, particularly television and radio stations, to intensify the airing of content related to natural disasters to reflect on the devastating tsunami in Aceh.

"This day marks the 20th anniversary of the Aceh tsunami, a disaster that claimed a large number of lives and led to massive destruction. To prevent the recurrence of such a tragedy, we need to educate people on disasters via TV and radio," he noted.

In the commission's statement cited here on Thursday, Ubaidillah emphasized that disseminating reliable information on disasters to the public is a form of disaster mitigation, which is essential for a country like Indonesia that sits in the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire.

The official then backed his argument by drawing attention to the floods and landslides that recently struck the districts of Sukabumi, Cianjur, and Pandeglang in West Java Province, which he views as a warning to Indonesia to continue to edify its people on disaster risks.

"I am convinced that it is crucial for us to provide members of the public with information on disasters, considering our country's vulnerability to disasters," he emphasized.

Ubaidillah then expressed hope that intensified broadcasting of disaster-related content and programs would help the nation build resilience against disasters, ultimately minimizing potential losses.

"Echoing information on disasters is a means to provide the public with clear instructions on what to do in the event of a disaster. That way, people will be able to independently take mitigation measures," he explained.

To that end, he suggested that broadcasting organizations air disaster-related programs and content during prime time to expand audience reach.

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Translator: Asep F, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Azis Kurmala
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