23 divers raise Red and White flag underwater in Kupang
The Kupang Search and Rescue Office, together with SAR Potential personnel, raised the Red and White flag at a depth of around 10 metres in the waters of Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara, to commemorate the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence. The flag-raising involved 23 divers from the Indonesian National Armed Forces and National Police.
Head of the Kupang Search and Rescue Office Mexianus Bekabel said the activity was not only a form of respect for the services of heroes, but also a symbol of readiness and solidarity among search and rescue elements in East Nusa Tenggara.
“Raising the flag underwater is a symbol of our readiness and highest respect for the Republic of Indonesia. At the same time, our hearts tremble as we pray for our brothers and sisters in Flores who are being tested by an earthquake disaster,” he said.
“We want to emphasise that Basarnas, together with all SAR Potential personnel, is always on standby and fully present for humanity,” he added.
According to him, the raising of the Red and White flag in Kupang waters also carried a message of unity and solidarity for the people of Flores who are facing the impact of the disaster. He said the geographical conditions of East Nusa Tenggara, which consist of islands separated by sea, do not prevent communities from helping and strengthening one another.
Mexianus expressed appreciation for the support of the East Nusa Tenggara Provincial Government, the Kupang City Government, the Indonesian National Armed Forces, the National Police, the Regional Disaster Management Agency, businesses, government institutions, volunteers, and SAR Potential personnel in the activity.
According to him, the involvement of various elements demonstrated synergy in building disaster preparedness while strengthening humanitarian action in East Nusa Tenggara.
“Through the momentum of the 81st anniversary of Indonesian independence, Basarnas Kupang together with SAR Potential personnel are committed to continuing to strengthen coordination and readiness to provide assistance to communities throughout East Nusa Tenggara, including areas currently facing disasters,” he said.