Fire and Rescue Service Marks 107th Anniversary with Focus on Strengthening Rescue and Mitigation Services
Jakarta — The Fire and Rescue Service (Damkarmat) marked its 107th anniversary on 1 March 2026 with a renewed commitment to strengthening rescue and mitigation service capacity amid increasing fire hazards and non-fire emergencies in regional areas.
Under the theme “Serving for National Safety”, this year’s commemoration served as a consolidation moment for Damkarmat’s role as the frontline guardian of public protection, addressing both firefighting and other rescue operations.
Safrizal ZA, Director-General of Regional Administration at the Interior Ministry, stated in Jakarta on Sunday that the service’s 107-year journey reflects decades of dedication to the community. “The theme ‘Serving for National Safety’ reminds us that firefighters’ duties extend beyond extinguishing fires—they provide protection and security to our people. During this Ramadhan season, this spirit of service gains deeper meaning as both worship and genuine care for others,” he said.
The main anniversary celebration is scheduled for 30 April 2026 in Palembang, South Sumatra.
According to Safrizal, Damkarmat’s operational complexity continues to grow as urban areas expand and settlements increase. Beyond firefighting, personnel respond to accident evacuations, disaster relief, dangerous animal handling, and other public emergencies.
Safrizal identified strengthening human resources, modernising equipment, and improving cross-sector coordination as priority initiatives to address these challenges. Regional governments have been urged to increase budget allocations and infrastructure support for fire and rescue units.
The anniversary is expected to serve as both reflection and motivation for all Damkarmat personnel across Indonesia to enhance public service quality and rapid emergency response capabilities.
This year’s 107th anniversary coincides with Ramadhan, during which personnel maintain round-the-clock readiness to ensure uninterrupted rescue services. With enhanced capacity and regional support, Damkarmat aims to become increasingly adaptive in fire risk mitigation and emergency management for public safety.