Five Active Volcanoes Erupt in Close Succession, Purbaya Assures Indonesia's Economy Remains Safe

Jakarta, VIVA – Finance Minister Purbaya Yudhi Sadewa has expressed hope that the disasters currently afflicting Indonesia will not significantly affect the economy in the third and fourth quarters of this year.

“We are safe; there is no problem with the budget. As for the economy, there may be a slight disruption, but it will not slow the economy significantly,” said Purbaya in Jakarta on Monday, 7 September 2026.

He added that the economy remains in line with the government’s target.

“It is still (on target); in fact, we are pushing hard in the third and fourth quarters,” he said.

Regarding disaster management, Purbaya stated that it is being handled through the budget of the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB). Nevertheless, he stands ready to provide additional funds for disaster response if required.

“BNPB has funds. Any need will first go to BNPB. If additional funds are needed, then we will provide them. Hopefully the impact will not be significant,” he said.

For information, the eruption activity of several volcanoes in Indonesia increased on Sunday, 6 September 2026. Mount Anak Krakatau, Mount Sinabung, Mount Lewotobi Laki-laki, Mount Semeru and Mount Merapi were all reported to have erupted within a close period.

President Prabowo Subianto has urged the public, particularly those in Jakarta, Banten, Lampung and the areas around the Sunda Strait, to remain calm and heighten their vigilance following the eruption activity of Mount Anak Krakatau.

The President asked the public to follow all directions from the government and field officers and not to approach the Mount Anak Krakatau area. The public is also asked to comply with the danger zone rules and safety boundaries established by the authorities.

President Prabowo said the government has been monitoring the development of Mount Anak Krakatau’s activity and has received the latest reports and information from relevant officials.

He has also instructed BNPB, BMKG, the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the National Police (Polri), regional governments, the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Transportation, and other relevant ministries and agencies to continue monitoring the situation.

In addition, all government elements have been asked to ensure preparedness is running well and to provide the necessary protection and assistance to the public.

Specifically for people affected by volcanic ash, President Prabowo urged them to look after their health and to use masks or respiratory protection.