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Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno (ANTARA PHOTOS/M Ifdhal/my) - 

Tourism and Creative Economy Minister Sandiaga Uno stated that education and literacy on disasters must be improved so that people are ready to address the catastrophes.

"Disaster mitigation is not only supported by technology, but must also be followed by an increased awareness," he said in Banda Aceh, the capital of Aceh Province, on Sunday.

The statement was made during an event to commemorate 17 years of deady eathquake and tsunami that rattled the province which lies on the northern tip of Sumatra Island on December 26, 2004.

The convening of the event was centered at the parking lot of Ulee Lheue Port in Banda Aceh. Among the attendants of the event were Aceh Governor Nova Iriansyah, West Java Governor Ridwan Kamil, Deputy Speaker of People's Consultative Assembly Ahmad Muzani, House of Representatives Member Fadhlullah, TA Khalid, Deputy President Commissioner of Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI) Dr. TGB Muhammad Zainul Majdi, and people from Aceh regional leadership coordination forum.

He pointed out that the tsunami which struck the Indonesian province and 14 other countries had resulted in the deaths of around 230 thousand people.

The existence of technology tools, including those related to the earthquake and tsunami early warning systems, offer knowledge and time for the public to be ready to seek protection and minimize the impacts of disasters, he remarked.

He stressed that efforts to prepare for disaster must be fostered together so that everyone can practice resilience in surmounting them.

"I compel everyone to campaign for the public to be aware of disaster mitigation," Uno reminded.

He also appealed to the people at large to increase the spirit of solidarity in the midst of many disasters, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, the public awareness of disaster mitigation, which would create resilient communities, could be strengthened. 

The commemorative event of the Aceh tsunami in Ulee Lheue was also followed with prayers and remembrance of those falling victim to the deadly catastrophe. The prayers were led by two Muslim preachers -- Zamhuri Ramli and Faizal Adriansyah.

The event organizer also conducted a grave visit, donations to orphans, a tsunami photo exhibition, awards for the caretakers of the tsunami site, and collaborative performances//ANT