BUILDING INSTITUTIONAL SYNERGICITY ON DISASTER MANAGEMENT IN ACEH

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This study attempted to discuss and develop concepts for the Aceh Disaster Management Agency (BPBA) to maximize their capacity in performing their function and task in any disaster management activities in Aceh Province. Methodology: In this study, literature reviews and semi-structured interviews were adopted to obtain information regarding the implementation of disaster management in Aceh and the performance of BPBA. In total, there are 26 interviewees, consisting of top management elements in BPBA and its main stakeholders, such as the government of Aceh, research centers, search and rescue team (SAR), the military, etc. Main Findings: This paper revealed that the implementation of disaster management activities in Aceh is still weak especially concerning the management structure of BPBA and coordination that have to be carried out with related stakeholders. Applications of this study: The proposed concepts in this paper are expected to be fruitful inputs for BPBA in performing and synergizing their risk reduction activities with other related parties for a better disaster management implementation in Aceh Province. Novelty/Originality of this study: Even though Aceh is one of the most disaster-prone areas in Indonesia, to the best of the author's knowledge, there are no researchers who discuss and study the importance of building institutional synergy for disaster management so far.