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| Paulos Hadi S.IP M.Si was in Dermaga Radio on April |
Sekadau, dermagafm.com – Member of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI) Paulos Hadi, S.IP., M.Si expressed his concern over the flash floods that have struck several regions in Indonesia, including West Sumatra, North Sumatra, and Aceh. According to him, these recurring disasters must become a serious concern for all policymakers.
In his statement sent via WhatsApp to Radio Dermaga, Paulos Hadi emphasized that floods and landslides do not only occur in Sumatra, but also pose a significant threat to other regions, especially those located along the River Basins (DAS) in Kalimantan and other islands.
“We are deeply concerned about the flash floods in West Sumatra, North Sumatra, and Aceh. However, the central government must also pay attention to the condition of communities living along river basins, including in Kalimantan. They live in disaster-prone areas and have long served as guardians and protectors of the forests,” said Paulos Hadi.
Addressing Mr. Nico, the Director of Radio Dermaga, who has consistently encouraged the community to protect and preserve the forests, he highlighted that indigenous communities living along riverbanks and in forest areas play a crucial role in safeguarding environmental sustainability. However, he noted that their welfare remains far from adequate.
“Indigenous communities have been protecting the forests for generations and have become the natural shield of our environment. Yet their living conditions are often just enough to survive. Their contribution is extraordinary, but recognition and attention from the state are still lacking,” he added.
As an initial step, Paulos Hadi urged the central government to immediately prepare outreach and assistance programs for communities living around river basins and forest areas. Such programs are expected to improve understanding of disaster mitigation, environmental management, and strengthen the resilience of communities in vulnerable regions.
“Assistance must be provided early on. The government needs to be present by offering education, training, and support so that people living along rivers and within or around forest areas can be better prepared and protected,” he stressed.
Paulos Hadi hopes that government attention toward indigenous communities and forest guardians will not be limited to moments of disaster, but will instead become a consistent part of long-term policy.
He also expressed his appreciation to Radio Dermaga, the only radio station to have recently received the Indonesian Cultural Award, and which continues to encourage communities to preserve culture and forests through its Sekolah Adat (Indigenous School) program. (NB)
Editor: Person in Charge, Radio Dermaga