PORTALJABAR, BANDUNG CITY - The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) continues to encourage increased public preparedness in facing potential disasters. This was conveyed by the Head of the Bandung City BPBD, Didi Ruswandi, in a talk show entitled "Ngabandungan Bandung: Time for Residents to Be Ready to Face Disasters" on Radio Sonata in collaboration with PR FM on Thursday (April 23, 2026).

This activity is part of a series of commemorations of Disaster Preparedness Day (HKB) at the Bandung City level, which carries a creative and educational approach to the community.

According to Didi, "Ngabandungan" has a profound meaning: it encourages people to listen, recognize themselves, and understand their environment. This philosophy aligns with the principle of disaster preparedness: the more aware you are of the risks, the greater your chances of survival.

"Bandung is not standing still. There are dynamics within the soil and environment. This is something we need to understand together so the community can be better prepared," he said.

As a form of innovation, the Bandung City Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) will hold a socialization and education event through the screening of a visually and interactive video mapping program. The event will take place at Bandung City Hall on Sunday, April 26, starting at 2:00 p.m. WIB.

This visual approach was chosen to change public perception of disaster mitigation education, which has often been perceived as a burden. With an engaging concept, it is hoped that disaster mitigation can become part of people's lifestyles.

"We want disaster mitigation to become a culture, like participating in running events. So it's no longer an obligation, but a necessity," said Didi.

Furthermore, he explained, the city of Bandung has various potential disasters, ranging from hydrometeorological ones such as floods and landslides, to the threat of earthquakes from the Lembang Fault, which is considered the most destructive.

"The potential for an earthquake from the Lembang Fault could reach a magnitude of 6.5 to 7. The impact could be significant, especially on buildings that are not earthquake-resistant," he said.

Didi emphasized the crucial role of the community in disaster rescue efforts. According to data, approximately 95 percent of victims survive thanks to the resources of themselves, their families, and their surrounding communities, while rescue teams contribute less than 5 percent.

Therefore, preparedness must start from the smallest community, namely the family. One simple step that can be taken is to identify safe spots in the home, such as under sturdy tables or the area known as the "triangle of life."

"Every family member should know where to take shelter in the event of an earthquake. If you don't plan ahead, panic will ensue, which can be dangerous," he explained.

Through this series of HKB activities, the Bandung City Government hopes to continue to increase public awareness and capacity in disaster preparedness. Going forward, the "Ngabandungan Bandung" concept is also expected to develop into an icon for disaster education, and even have the potential to become an international-scale festival. (Bandung City Communications and Information Office/rka)