The Sumatra Disaster: A Loud Alarm for the Climate Crisis and Improved Environmental Governance

The series of landslides and flash floods in various regions of Sumatra is not merely a matter of sudden heavy rainfall or the formation of cyclones. More than that, several indicators show that global warming has shifted climate patterns. This condition serves as a reminder that fundamental changes in environmental governance are no longer an option, but rather a crucial point that requires serious attention.

Based on data listed on the National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) website as of Wednesday (3/12/2025) at 19:00 WIB, the number of fatalities due to floods and landslides in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra has reached 770 individuals. Additionally, the number of missing persons is recorded at 463, while approximately 2,600 individuals have been injured.

Heavy rainfall with high intensity that has affected several regions is considered unusual and is associated with the phenomenon of the tropical cyclone Senyar. In addition, deforestation in the area has exacerbated its effects and triggered a series of disasters that have occurred.

Greenpeace Country Director for Indonesia, Leonard Simanjuntak, at Menara Kompas, Jakarta, Wednesday (3/12/2025), stated that Tropical Cyclone Senyar is a direct manifestation of the climate crisis, which is scientifically proven. The warming of sea water in the Malacca Strait is part of the extreme global warming that has the potential to continue occurring under the current environmental conditions.

"It will continue to happen if we do not make fundamental changes. Indeed, it (tropical cyclone Senyar) encounters the degradation of forest management in Sumatra. It meets all the destruction, leading to disasters," said Leonard.

Leonard compared the disaster in Sumatra with the Fung-Wong typhoon in the Philippines, which occurred in November 2025. According to the data he possesses, the typhoon had a speed of 215 kilometers per hour and resulted in 33 fatalities. Meanwhile, Cyclone Senyar, with a maximum speed of around 80 km per hour, has caused nearly 800 casualties.

"We do not have any early warning systems at all. The Philippines has them because it is indeed in the typhoon path. Meanwhile, we (Indonesia) are on the equator, so there should not be any. However, we will start to become acquainted with tropical cyclones. Previously, there was also Cyclone Seroja," he continued.

He added that the increase in the Earth's temperature has several times exceeded the safe threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius. If there are no fundamental changes to curb global warming, the potential for disasters could continue to occur.

According to Leonard, the target for national economic growth can indeed be achieved without sacrificing environmental conditions. Such modeling has already been present in previous administrations, with a target economic growth of 6-7 percent. However, this is accompanied by fundamental changes, ranging from making manufacturing greener to the implementation of a circular economy.

Previously, President Prabowo Subianto, while inspecting the disaster site in Central Tapanuli, North Sumatra, on Monday (December 1, 2025), stated that his office had received a weather forecast report for the coming days. The report predicted continued improvement. (Kompas.id December 1, 2025)

Prabowo views the disasters occurring in Aceh, North Sumatra, and West Sumatra as a consequence of climate change. "The current situation requires us to face climate change effectively; the government must truly function to protect the environment and anticipate conditions in the future. Those in the regions must also be prepared to confront the realities of climate change," he stated.

Senior Researcher at the Economics Department of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Deni Friawan stated that carbon emissions have caused global warming and created unpredictable climate conditions. Indonesia is currently facing a climate crisis that, among other things, has impacted disasters in Sumatra.

Indonesia's energy transition towards net zero emissions (NZE) by 2060 is considered an inevitability. Net zero emissions are not merely a national commitment but have become a global awareness and demand. The success of achieving net zero emissions depends on policy design and fiscal governance. Indonesia needs to explore the opportunities arising from the green transition.

On the other hand, although Indonesia has many sources of new renewable energy, its development still carries risks. For instance, the development of geothermal power plants (PLTP) poses earthquake risks if not conducted properly. Solar panels also have weaknesses in voltage stability. Therefore, the development of new renewable energy must have an optimal combination of options.

"The most critical issue is not about developing new renewable energy, but rather the early termination of coal-fired power plant operations. The significant costs are not due to shutting down what has already been invested, but because there are already long-term investment contracts," said Deni.

The disaster that occurred in Sumatra serves as a reminder of the real threats posed by environmental degradation and poor governance. Bold steps are needed towards greener and more sustainable development. Policy reforms and collective commitments are necessary to improve the environment. If not, similar disasters will continue to loom.