The Malang Regency Government is proactively increasing alertness to potential volcanic disasters by organizing the 2026 Mount Kelud Eruption Disaster Emergency Response Command System Field Exercise. This large-scale exercise, which took place at the Selorejo Dam Golf Course, Ngantang District, on Wednesday (8/7), was led directly by the Deputy Regent of Malang, Lathifah Shohib.
In her directive, Lathifah emphasized that preparedness must not be just a plan on paper. According to her, the effectiveness of disaster management heavily depends on the readiness of all elements, tested through realistic field simulations. This activity aims to test communication flows, decision-making speed, and integrated resident evacuation mechanisms.
This simulation involved various stakeholders, ranging from the Malang Regency Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), volunteers, security forces, to health workers. To support readiness at the grassroots level, the Malang Regency Government also handed over logistical aid in the form of family tents, masks, and mats to five villages located in high-risk zones.
Lathifah added that Malang Regency has varied disaster risks, ranging from hydrometeorological to volcanic threats. Therefore, cross-sector synergy without sectoral ego is a vital key. She stressed that speed and accuracy of action in the field are top priorities to minimize impact in the event of a real eruption in the future.
As a form of moral and strategic support, this event was also attended by representatives of the National Disaster Management Authority (BNPB) and the East Java Province BPBD. Lathifah hoped all participants would join the simulation with full seriousness so that the built coordination patterns can become a working and living culture for the community, as a real investment for mutual safety.
