Daryono's Message After Resigning from BMKG: Earthquakes Don't Kill, Buildings Do

Jakarta - Earthquake and tsunami observer Daryono has resigned from his position as Director of Earthquake and Tsunami at the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG). In his message, Daryono reminded the public that it is not earthquakes that kill, but unsafe buildings.

“My message to the public: earthquakes don’t kill — it is unsafe buildings that kill,” Daryono told reporters on Sunday (2/15/2026).

He therefore urged the public to ensure their buildings are earthquake-resistant. He also called on people to understand the risks of the areas where they live.

“Make sure your home is built or renovated according to earthquake-resistant principles. Know the risks of your residential area,” he said.

Daryono also reminded people to know what to do during an earthquake. He urged the public not to be easily swayed by hoaxes.

“Train your family to know what to do when an earthquake strikes. Don’t be easily provoked by hoaxes — refer to official sources for information,” he said.

For him, mitigation is not about waiting for help but about building awareness. He said that tectonic plate movement cannot be stopped, but the risks can be reduced.

“We cannot stop the movement of tectonic plates, but we can stop earthquakes from becoming disasters by reducing the risks,” Daryono said.

According to the latest press release shared by BMKG, the position of BMKG Director of Earthquake and Tsunami is now filled by an acting official, Rahmat Triyono. BMKG Public Relations Head Taufan Maulana confirmed the news of Daryono’s resignation, saying Daryono has entered retirement.

“That is correct — he has entered retirement,” Taufan said when asked for separate confirmation.