The Disaster Response Unit (DERU) of Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) distributed food assistance packages to residents affected by a tornado in Penggung Hamlet, Jambukulon Village, Ceper District, Klaten Regency, Central Java, on February 25, 2025. The food aid packages, coordinated by Destina Kawanti, S.IP., M.A., were officially handed over to the Head of Jambukulon Village and witnessed by the Head of Ceper District, Supardiyono, S.IP., M.Si.
Through this assistance, DERU UGM aims to help ease the burden on affected residents and support post-disaster recovery efforts.
“We hope this assistance can help the community cope with the difficult situation caused by this disaster,” said Destina.
Supardiyono welcomed the support provided by DERU UGM.
“We sincerely appreciate UGM’s concern and assistance. This support is very helpful for our community as we recover from the disaster,” he stated.
The tornado struck earlier that day at approximately 2:50 PM local time, following heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds. Around 60 houses were affected, most of which sustained minor damage. In addition to residential properties, the tornado damaged a briquette factory building, a furniture warehouse, three mosques, the roof of Penggung Bus Terminal, several shop houses and kiosks, the Jambukulon Community Health Center (Puskesmas), and one traditional Javanese joglo house, which suffered severe damage.
As an initial disaster response measure, the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Klaten established a volunteer command post and a public kitchen to meet the needs of affected residents.
“Today, we have prepared approximately 500 meal portions, covering breakfast through the evening meal,” said Syahruna, Head of BPBD Klaten.
Meanwhile, representatives from the Disaster Preparedness Youth Corps (Tagana) Klaten emphasized the importance of disaster mitigation training for local communities.
“We have observed that community preparedness still needs improvement. We hope DERU UGM can provide disaster mitigation training so that residents will be better prepared to face future disasters,” a Tagana representative explained.
This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to food security, disaster resilience, and sustainable community development. The recent tornado highlights the growing challenges posed by changing weather patterns, which often have a disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities.
In responding to disasters such as this, it is essential for institutions like DERU UGM not only to provide immediate relief but also to contribute to long-term solutions that strengthen community resilience. Collaboration among local governments, disaster management agencies, and educational institutions plays a vital role in building effective disaster preparedness and response systems.
As communities begin the recovery process, the importance of sustainable practices and food security becomes increasingly evident. Ensuring access to food and essential resources is critical not only for immediate recovery but also for strengthening resilience against future disasters.
The efforts of DERU UGM and local authorities reflect a proactive approach to disaster response, emphasizing the need for continuous support, education, and training to empower communities in facing the challenges of climate change and natural disasters.
Source: DERU UGM Team (And_Dest)
Author: Dn Halimah
Editor: DnH & Araya
Photos: DERU UGM Team