Volcanic Ash Threat Looms, Suhud Urges Jakarta Residents Not to Panic: Safety Comes First

JAKARTA — Suhud Alynudin, Chairman of the Jakarta Regional Legislative Council (DPRD DKI), has urged the public to remain calm while staying alert in response to the eruption activity of Mount Anak Krakatau (GAK) in the Sunda Strait. Residents are asked not to panic and to keep following developments through official information from the government and relevant authorities.

“What matters most is to stay calm, but without letting our guard down. The public needs to follow the directions of the relevant authorities and make sure the information they receive comes from trustworthy sources,” Suhud said on Monday (7 September 2026).

According to Suhud, readiness for emergencies should begin within the family. Every family needs a simple plan so that all members know what to do should circumstances require evacuation to a safer location.

“Starting now, families should sit down together and draw up a simple plan. Agree on a safe place to move to if needed, write down and keep important contact numbers so they are not lost during an emergency, and determine a meeting point that is safe and easy to identify,” Suhud explained.

Suhud said such a plan is especially necessary when family members are in different places. Every family member, he said, needs to know the evacuation routes, gathering locations, and whom to contact in an emergency.

“All family members must know where to go, whom to contact, and where to gather. Preparedness must start at home,” Suhud said.

Suhud also urged the Jakarta Provincial Government to strengthen the dissemination of information down to the level of urban villages (kelurahan) and neighbourhoods. Quick, clear, and verified information, he said, can prevent panic while helping residents make the right decisions.

“The government and the public must work together. Information on conditions and handling measures must reach residents quickly and be accountable,” Suhud asserted.

Suhud commended the Jakarta Education Office’s policy of implementing distance learning (PJJ) as a precautionary measure to protect students.

“Human life and safety matter more than anything else. Let us remain calm, apply the 5M protocols, heighten our vigilance, look out for one another, and follow the government’s directions. Our preparedness today is a form of effort to protect our families and communities,” Suhud concluded.