Dear readers,

As Christmas and New Year approach, those planning their holidays should remain vigilant about Indonesia’s current environmental crisis: Indonesia’s Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysics Agency has warned of extreme weather for the coming weeks. A 20% increase in rainfall intensity due to a mild La Niña risks floods and landslides across the archipelago.

For more than a week now, residents in North Jakarta have been dealing with tidal floods–along with other northern coastal places of Java, like Semarang and Demak. Additionally, flash floods were observed in South Tapanuli, North Sumatra, and Ponorogo, East Java. Some parts of South Sulawesi, including the province capital Makassar, have also been flooded.

The frequent disasters that displaced thousands of residents have spurred debates on the fundamental causes. Environmental groups like WALHI blamed reckless mining for the Sukabumi floods and landslides that killed 10, while the Forestry Ministry cited local agriculture as a contributing element.

The areas surrounding the new capital project in East Kalimantan have also not been immune to flooding, adding to the controversy surrounding its development. Some worry about the project’s sustainability in the long run since environmental evaluations may have exaggerated the region’s vulnerability to disasters.

Debates should not stop at the immediate consequences of human actions. The rising frequency and severity of extreme weather patterns highlight the urgent realities of climate change, as studies show how it aggravates them and the disasters they bring.

As we reflect on what is happening across our country, this week’s newsletter also offers a moment to remember the resilience of those affected by the 2004 Aceh Tsunami and the lessons that remain vital in addressing today’s challenges.

Our thoughts are with all the victims affected by these calamities. As we celebrate the holidays, let’s remain mindful of our environment and the collective steps we can take to mitigate these challenges.

I wish everyone a merry, safe and mindful holiday season.

Kind regards,