The Indonesian Presidential Communication Head, Hasan Nasbi, has refuted claims that the budget of the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) was slashed by 50 percent due to efficiency measures. “It is not true that the BMKG budget was cut by 50 percent. Please check with the BMKG for the latest data,” said Hasan on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. Despite budget cuts in the government, Hasan assured that disaster mitigation remains a top priority. “So disaster mitigation is a public service that is guaranteed to be optimal,” Hasan emphasized.
Hasan explained that there are four criteria that were not affected by budget cuts. The first being employee salaries, basic priority services, employees, public services, and social assistance. He stressed that budget efficiency does not diminish the government’s capabilities. “Efficiency according to President Prabowo’s directives is to eliminate the fat in our state budget spending, but not reduce muscle. The government’s energy and capacity will not decrease due to this fat reduction,” he said.
Previously, the BMKG budget was reported to have been reduced by 50.35 percent according to the Minister of Finance Letter Number S-37/MK.02/2025. The BMKG budget, which was initially Rp2.826 trillion, was slashed to Rp1.423 trillion. This budget cut was deemed to have a significant impact on capital expenditure, goods expenditure, and maintenance that could not be carried out in 2025.
This efficiency measure was said to jeopardize many critical operational tools (aloptama) as maintenance funds were reduced by up to 71 percent. Observation and the ability to detect weather dynamics, climate, air quality, earthquakes, and tsunamis were also disrupted. As the government, through the Ministry of Finance, announced budget cuts in several spending items for ministries/agencies for the year 2025.
### Budget Cuts and Disaster Preparedness
The recent budget cuts imposed on the BMKG have raised concerns about the agency’s ability to effectively carry out its disaster mitigation services. With a substantial reduction in funding, critical operational tools and maintenance efforts are at risk of being severely compromised. The potential consequences of these budget cuts on disaster preparedness and response efforts are alarming, as the agency’s capacity to monitor and detect weather-related phenomena is threatened.
Experts in disaster management emphasize the importance of maintaining adequate resources and funding for organizations like the BMKG to ensure the safety and well-being of the population. Without sufficient financial support, the agency may struggle to fulfill its mandate of providing timely and accurate information to mitigate the impact of natural disasters. As climate change continues to pose significant challenges, the need for robust disaster preparedness measures becomes increasingly urgent.
### Ensuring Resilience and Sustainability
In light of the budget cuts facing the BMKG, it is crucial for government officials to prioritize resilience and sustainability in disaster mitigation efforts. While cost-saving measures are necessary, it is essential to strike a balance between efficiency and effectiveness in ensuring the agency’s ability to respond to emergencies. By investing in the necessary resources and infrastructure, Indonesia can enhance its disaster preparedness and response capabilities, safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of its citizens.
As Hasan Nasbi affirms the government’s commitment to maintaining optimal disaster mitigation services despite budget constraints, it is imperative to explore innovative solutions and partnerships to bridge the funding gap. Collaborating with international organizations, leveraging technology, and engaging with local communities can help bolster the BMKG’s resilience and sustainability in the face of financial challenges. By working together towards a common goal of disaster resilience, Indonesia can build a more secure and resilient future for all its citizens.
