Indonesia and Japan Team Up for Earthquake Early Warning System
Indonesia is partnering with Japan to develop an earthquake early warning system, with initial trial runs planned for Jakarta and other regions by 2030. The announcement follows the devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake in mid-August that killed over 140 people off the island of Flores, underscoring the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness.
A Collaborative Research Effort
A joint Indonesia-Japan team began research in 2025, focusing on three provinces on Java Island, including Jakarta. The initiative is supported by Tokyo’s official development assistance program. Researchers are prioritizing the creation of low-cost earthquake observation equipment and systems designed to automatically halt industrial and transport operations during tremors.
Leveraging Local Infrastructure for Alerts
The project will also develop evacuation guidelines tailored to Indonesia’s diverse infrastructure. A key component will utilize mosques to disseminate warnings via loudspeakers used for the Adhan, the Islamic call to prayer. “This is the one that we actually would like to replicate,” said Dr. Andi Eka Sakya, senior researcher at the Indonesian government-affiliated National Research and Innovation Agency and the Indonesian head of the joint research team. “We observed the effectiveness of their system during a recent earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture.”
Japan’s System and Future Expansion
Japan launched its own earthquake early warning system in October 2007, delivering alerts through TV, radio, and smartphones. Once Indonesia’s system is operational, Japan has indicated it may extend similar support to other nations. The collaboration also presents an opportunity for Japan to refine its earthquake technology through international partnerships.
Addressing Indonesia’s Vulnerability
The five-year test phase of the project aims to address the high vulnerability of Indonesian buildings to seismic events.
Key Questions Answered
What is the timeline? Trial runs are scheduled for 2030, following the launch of a five-year research project in 2025.
Why is Japan involved? Japan is providing technical and financial support through its official development assistance program, adapting its existing earthquake early warning system to the unique needs of Indonesia.
How will alerts be delivered? The system will integrate automated shutdowns for industry and transport, alongside community-based alerts delivered via mosque loudspeakers.
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