Facing eruption threat, MUI urges stronger preparedness and prayer

Indonesia’s Ulema Council is urging the public to respond to the threat of an Anak Krakatau eruption with both practical preparation and prayer. The council said people should follow official safety instructions and remain alert to information from the authorities.

KH Asrorun Ni’am Sholeh, chair of the council’s fatwa division, said volcanic eruptions were natural events beyond direct human control. That, he argued, made technical mitigation and readiness essential to reducing the risk of casualties.

In a written message received by Republika, he said people should use scientific knowledge and early-warning systems rather than respond passively to disasters. He described eruptions in theological terms as natural events not caused by human actions, while emphasizing that Islam requires people to use reason and knowledge to protect human life.

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For disasters that we cannot choose, the step we must take is an appropriate response through a preventive approach, using science and early-warning systems.

The council called on residents, especially those near disaster-prone areas, to monitor official information from the Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysical Agency and volcano observation posts. Asrorun also urged people to combine these measures with prayer, remembrance, repentance and self-reflection.

“With astronomical indicators, information from BMKG and early-warning systems, we need to be cautious. We must understand the safety and early-protection procedures if a burst or eruption occurs,” he said.

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With astronomical indicators, information from BMKG and early-warning systems, we need to be cautious. We must understand the safety and early-protection procedures if a burst or eruption occurs.