Indonesian Government to Review Tourist Trekking Safety Following Tragic Death on Mount Rinjani
In response to the recent tragic death of a Brazilian tourist on Lombok’s Mount Rinjani, the Indonesian Government has announced a comprehensive review of trekking and hiking safety standards across the country. This commitment aims to enhance the safety of tourists and all involved personnel in one of Indonesia’s most popular outdoor activities.
Over the past five years, Indonesia has witnessed numerous trekking-related incidents, including cases where tourists have become lost, injured, or have even died on renowned peaks such as Mount Batur and Mount Agung in Bali. The latest fatality has intensified calls for improved safety measures and stricter protocols to prevent similar tragedies.
Government Agencies to Conduct Nationwide Safety Evaluation
The Ministry of Forestry, alongside the National Search and Rescue Authority (Basarnas), has pledged to immediately assess current standard operating procedures governing mountaineering and trekking activities nationwide. They aim to minimize risks associated with outdoor climbing and ensure greater protection for climbers, guides, porters, and support staff.
Mohammad Syafi’i, Head of Basarnas, emphasized the urgency of this initiative during a press briefing in Jakarta. He noted the importance of enhancing the joint search and rescue team’s capabilities throughout Indonesia to better handle emergencies in challenging mountainous terrain.
“We want to improve the potential of SAR capability. Although current synergy in the field is good, better collaboration remains crucial,” Syafi’i stated. He was quick to clarify that all efforts during the recent Rinjani rescue were executed in accordance with international standards, though extreme weather conditions notably slowed the recovery operation.
Basarnas operates in coordination with various agencies, including the Forestry Department, Environmental and Conservation Departments (BKSDA), the Natural Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), Indonesian police, the military, local guides, security teams, and volunteer organizations. Together, they respond to emergencies, natural disasters, and work to establish comprehensive safety protocols nationwide.
Emphasizing International Standards and Public Communication
Syafi’i underscored that Basarnas maintains an international standard, referencing their participation in rescue missions abroad, such as in Turkey and Myanmar. The agency undergoes assessments every five years by INSARAG, a United Nations body overseeing search and rescue teams globally.
He highlighted that going forward, resource allocation and public communication would be focal points. “In tourist areas, communication is a starting point. With effective communication, we can assess potential dangers, prepare personnel and equipment adequately, and complement each other’s limited capacities,” he explained.
Tourism Ministry and Forestry Ministry Engage in Safety Measures
Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, Minister of Tourism, extended condolences to the family and friends of Juliana Marins, the 29-year-old victim recently lost on Mount Rinjani. The Minister emphasized the critical importance of strict adherence to safety procedures, acknowledging that these are far more than mere formalities but essential in reducing fatal incidents.
"This incident reminds us that every extreme tourist destination contains serious risks," Wardhana remarked while affirming the ministry’s commitment to ensuring tourists’ safety.
Meanwhile, Minister of Forestry Raja Juli Antoni pledged to evaluate and upgrade all standard operating procedures related to trekking. He cautioned tourists to realistically evaluate their physical and mental readiness before undertaking demanding climbs.
“Mountains like Agung, Rinjani, Ijen, Bromo, and even Batur are not simple hikes; they are technically difficult climbs requiring proper preparation,” Antoni stated. He stressed the necessity of physical fitness, mental preparation, and proper equipment, warning against treating these activities as casual ventures motivated by trends.
Minister Antoni also revealed plans to increase the number of posts along climbing routes and introduce technological solutions such as RFID bracelets for climbers, enabling rapid detection and response during emergencies.
“We are a country located in the Ring of Fire, where such incidents can happen anywhere. Our SAR teams are capable, bolstered by strong community volunteerism, but infrastructure preparedness remains vital,” Antoni concluded.
A Call for Greater Awareness and Preparedness
The government’s forthcoming review and improvements aim to foster safer trekking environments across Indonesia’s rugged landscapes. Authorities urge all tourists to respect safety guidelines and honestly assess their readiness before embarking on these challenging adventures. While the country’s scenic peaks continue to draw travelers worldwide, heightened safety protocols will hopefully prevent future tragedies and preserve Indonesia’s reputation as a premier trekking destination.
—
About the Incident
The tragic death of Juliana Marins on Mount Rinjani last week has ignited a nationwide call for heightened safety oversight. While rescue teams acted swiftly amidst harsh weather conditions, the incident revealed areas needing urgent improvement to protect visitors on Indonesia’s demanding mountain trails.
—
For continual updates and travel advice, subscribe to The Bali Sun’s newsletter and stay informed on safety practices for your next adventure in Indonesia.
Add a comment