Exploring Indonesian coastal communities' responses to the 2019 Ambon earthquake and preparedness for future disasters

Abstract

Since the seventeenth century, megathrust earthquakes and tsunamis have been recorded in Maluku Province, Indonesia. Most of Maluku's communities live on alluvial soils where tsunamis have occurred on active seismic paths, which will negatively impact them during disasters. Therefore, learning from past communities' responses and experiences is vital to decrease the risk associated with potential future disasters. However, studies about Indonesian coastal communities’ seismic responses and preparedness at the grassroots level, particularly in Maluku Province, have yet to be done. Thirty survivors of the Mw 6.5 Ambon earthquake in 2019 with over a thousand aftershocks, living in the three coastal villages on Ambon Island, were selected as respondents in the semi-structured interviews. The research results showed that the survivors had various responses to the earthquake and its aftershocks. Religious belief was a critical factor for their capability to respond to calamities, besides social support that has helped them survive. The 2019 earthquake has also enhanced their creativity, engagement, and participation. Some disaster preparedness gaps still exist, although their experiences have taught them to be more aware and prepared for future disasters. These problematic gaps are the availability of early warning systems, public education and information, risk transfer capability, protection development, humanitarian aid protocols and procedures, and health recovery. With its crucial recommendations, this study strengthens disaster governance in archipelagic countries like Indonesia and adds to the literature on how coastal communities handle multiple seismic disasters.