The Malang Regency Government emphasized the importance of testing disaster management capabilities in a real-world setting through field exercises. The Vice Regent of Malang, Lathifah Shohib, stressed that planning on paper is not enough if it is not accompanied by the technical readiness of all elements in the field.
The simulation of the Mount Kelud eruption emergency response command system for the year 2026 took place at the Selorejo Dam Golf Course, Ngantang District, on Wednesday (8/7/2026). On this occasion, Lathifah also handed over logistical aid in the form of family tents, medical masks, and mattresses to representatives of five villages deemed vulnerable to the impacts.
This simulation is a follow-up phase to a series of previous exercises. Lathifah highlighted the high risk of disasters in the Malang Regency area, ranging from the volcanic threat of Mount Kelud to the risks of earthquakes and landslides. She urged all participants to take this exercise seriously, as if they were facing a real emergency.
In her directive, Lathifah also emphasized the importance of cross-sectoral synergy. According to her, successful disaster mitigation heavily relies on effective communication and rapid decision-making, which means sectoral egos among relevant agencies must be set aside for the safety of the citizens.
At the end of her speech, the Vice Regent expressed high appreciation for the BPBD (Regional Disaster Management Agency), volunteers, healthcare workers, and security personnel who serve as the front line in disaster response. She hopes that this culture of preparedness will continue to be instilled in the community as a long-term investment in safety.
