Kemenko PMK: Research is Key to Disaster Policy

This forum serves as an important space for discussing strategic disaster issues while strengthening cross-sector commitments in addressing global challenges, including the climate crisis. Yogyakarta (ANTARA) - Assistant Deputy for Disaster Risk Reduction at the Coordinating Ministry for Human Development and Culture (Kemenko PMK), Andre Notohamijoyo, emphasised that a culture of research is key to disaster policy, in addition to the development of science and technology, as well as cross-sector collaboration. The statement was delivered by Andre when opening the 9th Annual Scientific Meeting on Disaster Research, organised by the Indonesian Association of Disaster Experts (IABI) in collaboration with Universitas Muhammadiyah Yogyakarta (UMY), in Yogyakarta on Wednesday. At the event, which carried the theme of Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance for Resilience, Andre stressed that amid the encirclement of the global climate crisis, Indonesia needs policy recommendations based on strong scientific data. “IABI is an important pillar in producing research- and innovation-based policy recommendations. This forum becomes an important space for discussing strategic disaster issues while strengthening cross-sector commitments in facing global challenges, including the climate crisis,” he said. He stated that the momentum of the 20th anniversary commemoration of the 2006 Yogyakarta Earthquake serves as a reflection on the major impacts of the disaster that caused thousands of fatalities and significant economic losses, while also giving birth to a spirit of mutual cooperation and the Build Back Better principle. “Going forward, strengthening the culture of research, developing science and technology, and cross-sector collaboration are key to building long-term resilience,” he said. The General Chair of IABI, Prof Harkunti P Rahayu, when opening the event, emphasised that disaster risks do not only come from natural factors but are also influenced by development policies, governance, and community adaptation capabilities. The Annual Scientific Meeting on Disaster Research took place over three days (Wednesday to Friday, 6-8 May 2026) with around 500 participants.