“In handling disasters, we have a six-hour response principle—wherever the disaster occurs, PMI volunteers must be present at the site. It requires speed and dedication,” said PMI Chairman Jusuf Kalla during the organization’s 80th anniversary ceremony at Brigif Reservoir, South Jakarta, on Wednesday.
Kalla stressed that PMI’s presence is vital in disaster-hit areas, where it plays a key role in emergency response, providing assistance, and improving health services.
He also cited the recent flash floods in Bali, attributing them to environmental degradation.
In response, he highlighted PMI’s commitment to large-scale tree planting as part of its strategy to restore damaged ecosystems across Indonesia.
“Environmental damage—the recent flooding in Bali happened because many upstream river areas have been converted into villas or businesses. That’s why one of our main programs is environmental restoration through large-scale tree planting. All regional PMI branches must do the same,” Kalla said.
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Meanwhile, PMI Secretary-General AM Fachir stated that the anniversary celebration—held simultaneously at 497 PMI offices nationwide—serves as a moment to strengthen the spirit of humanity.
“Today, from Papua to Aceh, everyone is carrying out the same activities under the same theme. All of this is done to spread kindness—by sharing, helping, and caring, we can strengthen national unity through humanitarian work,” Fachir said.
He added that during its 80th anniversary, all administrators, volunteers, and supporters are encouraged to stay true to PMI’s mission of maintaining the national blood supply, responding to disasters, and delivering health and social services.
PMI marked its 80th anniversary by inviting the public to join the #TebarkanKebaikan (Spread Kindness) campaign.
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Translator: Luthfia Miranda, Kuntum Khaira Riswan
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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