Ahmad Luthfi Urges Central Java PMI to Boost Disaster Response

Central Java Governor Ahmad Luthfi has urged the Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) to act as the backbone of humanitarian and disaster management efforts in the province, which he described as a ‘minimarket of disasters’ prone to floods, tidal surges, landslides, and volcanic eruptions. He made the statement during the inauguration of the PMI Central Java board for the 2026-2031 term on Friday (31/7/2026). During the ceremony, PMI Chairman Jusuf Kalla inaugurated Ahmad Luthfi as Patron of PMI Central Java, Deputy Governor Taj Yasin Maimoen as Chairman of the Honorary Council, and House of Representatives member Haryanto as Chairman of PMI Central Java, alongside other board members. Luthfi stressed that PMI’s role extends beyond blood donation services, encompassing emergency response, setting up public kitchens, providing first aid, and assisting disaster-affected communities. With the new leadership, he expressed hope that PMI Central Java would strengthen its quick response to disasters and develop creative breakthroughs in pre-disaster, emergency, and post-disaster phases. He acknowledged PMI Central Java’s track record as a key force in supporting the government with humanitarian issues. PMI Chairman Jusuf Kalla emphasised that the organisation’s primary duty is to alleviate human suffering caused by natural or man-made disasters, requiring constant vigilance and swift action. He noted that preparedness is crucial given Indonesia’s disaster-prone geography, and that volunteers must be equipped with adequate training, logistics, and equipment. Kalla added that PMI’s humanitarian work relies heavily on public, government, and business trust, which must be maintained through excellent service. Addressing the El Niño-induced drought, he said PMI has prepared around 200 water tankers to assist affected areas across Indonesia. PMI Central Java Chairman Haryanto reported that humanitarian operations for drought relief have been carried out in 14 districts and cities, distributing 2.2 million litres of clean water through 433 deliveries using 18 tankers. The aid reached 88 villages across 48 sub-districts, benefiting 109,319 people, though distribution remains hampered as not all district-level PMI branches own tankers. Following his inauguration, Haryanto pledged to continue synergising with local governments on humanitarian programmes, including disaster management, social services, health, youth and volunteer development, and meeting basic community needs.